By Admin 
Pakistan has definitely announced its team for the T20 World Cup 2026, but despite this, the picture regarding playing in the tournament is still not clear. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has clearly indicated that declaring the team and participating in the World Cup are two different things. The final decision is still in the hands of the Pakistan government and until the green signal is received from there, questions will remain on Pakistan’s participation.
Controversy started due to ICC decision
Actually, the controversy started after the decision of ICC, in which Bangladesh was excluded from T20 World Cup 2026. Pakistan opposed this decision and even said that it can boycott the tournament. After this the ICC took a tough stance and warned Pakistan of possible action. Meanwhile, PCB announced its 15-member team, but also said that this decision should not be considered final.
PCB Chairman met the players
After the announcement of the team, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi held a meeting with the players and head coach Mike Hesson. According to the language, PCB issued a release saying that in this meeting, Naqvi clearly told the players that playing in the World Cup will depend on the instructions of the government. Since the tournament is to be played in India and Sri Lanka, it is not just a cricket board’s decision but a government-level decision.
Preparations on hold, waiting for government’s decision
PCB says that the team has been selected so that if approval is received from the government, there is no delay in the preparations. However, if the government refuses to participate in the tournament, the Pakistan team will not go to the World Cup. Naqvi himself is a part of the government, hence his statement is being considered very important.
players standing with the board
The players have also supported the board in this entire matter. According to the statement issued by the PCB, the players have clearly said that whatever decision the government and the board take, they will stand by it. At present the players are focusing on their fitness and the upcoming series.
Pressure increased due to ICC warning
On the other hand, ICC has already warned Pakistan that if the World Cup is boycotted, it could have serious consequences. This includes actions like boycotting international cricket series like Asia Cup, impacting bilateral series and banning the participation of foreign players in domestic leagues.
Overall, despite the announcement of the team, Pakistan’s playing of the T20 World Cup still remains a matter of suspense. Now all eyes are on the final decision of the Pakistan government.