PCB chief to 'consult' PM on ICC request over Pak–India T20 World Cup match

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has decided to once again approach the Prime Minister following a request from the International Cricket Council (ICC) regarding Pakistan’s refusal to play India in the T20 World Cup 2026.

According to sources, Mohsin Naqvi is expected to meet Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif within the next one or two days, during which he will seek government guidance in light of the ICC’s request.

Sources say that the final decision on the Pakistan–India match will be taken by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

It may be recalled that, on the instructions of the federal government, the PCB had earlier decided to participate in the T20 World Cup but not to play against India.

Meanwhile, the ICC continues efforts to persuade Pakistan to play the high-profile match. In this regard, talks are underway in Lahore between ICC Deputy Chairman Imran Khwaja and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. Bangladesh Cricket Board President Aminul Islam is also present at the meeting.

Sources reveal that negotiations between the parties have been ongoing for more than three hours, with the PCB chairman focusing on seeking redress for what he described as unfair treatment of Bangladesh.

During the discussions, Mohsin Naqvi reportedly made it clear to the ICC deputy chairman that the decision not to play India was taken by the government, and any decision to reverse it would also come from the government.

Earlier today, Bangladesh Cricket Board President Aminul Islam also thanked Mohsin Naqvi for Pakistan’s support and solidarity with Bangladesh during his meeting at the PCB headquarters.