The T20 World Cup is mired in controversy as Pakistan aligns with Bangladesh against the ICC, prompting warnings of severe penalties from the cricket overlords. PCB head Mohsin Naqvi’s fiery remarks have amplified the rift, positioning Pakistan at the center of a potential showdown.
It all stems from Bangladesh’s decision to forego their India-based matches over safety fears, resulting in their ouster and Scotland’s inclusion. Naqvi decried the ICC’s ‘hypocrisy,’ recalling flexible venue adjustments for Indo-Pak games while Bangladesh faced the axe.
‘We’re accountable to our government, not the ICC,’ Naqvi declared, noting that Pakistan’s tournament involvement hinges on official sanction once the Prime Minister returns from abroad.
ICC insiders reveal a hardening stance: possible Asia Cup exclusion, frozen bilateral tours, and NOC denials for PSL participants top the list of retaliatory steps. Pakistan’s withdrawal threat could cascade into broader suspensions, disrupting global schedules.
This episode underscores deeper fractures in cricket administration—between full members, geopolitics, and rule enforcement. Observers fear it might fracture alliances and taint the World Cup’s legacy, urging swift resolution to refocus on the pitch.