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Pakistan put T20 World Cup preparations on hold [Source: AFP]
Pakistan’s preparations for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 have reportedly come to a sudden halt. According to Pakistan media outlet Geo News, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has paused all planning for the tournament due to uncertainty surrounding Bangladesh’s participation.
Notably, the World Cup is scheduled to be played from February 7 to March 8, 2026, across India and Sri Lanka.
Sources revealed that the PCB has temporarily stopped team preparations and will brief the team management later about the next steps.
At the same time, officials have asked them to work on a backup or contingency plan in case Pakistan eventually decides not to take part in the tournament.
Pakistan show support for Bangladesh
It is important to mention that the pause in preparation is closely linked to Bangladesh’s concerns about traveling to India for the World Cup. Pakistan have openly supported Bangladesh’s stance, calling its security concerns valid.
PCB officials have stressed that no country should be pressured or threatened when it comes to hosting or participation issues.
Moreover, sources confirmed that if Bangladesh’s concerns are not resolved in a satisfactory manner, Pakistan may also reconsider its own participation in the event. Reports on Sunday already suggested that Pakistan are reviewing its position if the situation remains unchanged.
PCB offer to host matches in Pakistan
In an effort to help resolve the issue, the PCB has shown flexibility. Interestingly, Pakistan expressed their willingness to host Bangladesh’s World Cup matches if venues in Sri Lanka are not available. According to PCB officials, all Pakistani stadiums are fully prepared to host international matches.
ICC’s ultimatum to Bangladesh over T20 World Cup 2026
Meanwhile, the ICC has taken a firm stand. As per ICC sources, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has been given a deadline of Wednesday, January 21, to confirm whether Bangladesh will travel to India for the T20 World Cup.
If Bangladesh refuses to participate, the ICC is expected to name a replacement team. Based on current rankings, Scotland is reportedly the most likely option. The ICC has made it clear that the tournament will begin on schedule, starting February 7.
For unversed, Bangladesh’s worries began after pacer Mustafizur Rahman was released from KKR’ IPL 2026 squad following instructions from the BCCI. Since then, the BCB has repeatedly asked for their matches to be moved out of India, citing player safety and security concerns.
ICC stands firm on Bangladesh's T20 WC matches in India
However, the ICC has refused to change the original schedule. Bangladesh remains placed in Group C alongside New Zealand, West Indies, Italy, and Nepal.
As things stand, Bangladesh are scheduled to play three group matches at Eden Gardens in Kolkata and one match at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium. The ICC also rejected a proposal for Bangladesh and Ireland to swap groups, which would have allowed Bangladesh to play in Sri Lanka instead.
Importantly, the ICC has assured the BCB that India poses no security threat to the Bangladesh team.
