After Bangladesh, is Pakistan next? ICC warns of ban over boycott threat

Dubai (The Uttam Hindu): Just before the start of the T20 World Cup 2026, there has been an earthquake in the cricket world. Due to its stubbornness in refusing to play in India, Bangladesh has been shown the way out of the tournament and Scotland has been included in its place. After this decision, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has joined Bangladesh in supporting it and has threatened to boycott the World Cup. However, this arrogance of Pakistan may prove costly for it. According to reports, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has taken a tough stand on this attitude of Pakistan and has warned that if Pakistan boycotts the tournament, it may face severe sanctions.

The sword of sanctions hanging over Pakistan cricket

According to a report in the Indian Express, the ICC is extremely unhappy with Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi's recent statements and his stance in support of Bangladesh. ICC sources have made it clear that if Pakistan follows Bangladesh's lead and decides not to play in the World Cup, it will face serious consequences. The ICC could ban bilateral cricket series between Pakistan and other countries. Furthermore, Pakistan could be expelled from the Asia Cup. The Pakistan Super League (PSL) could face the biggest blow, as the ICC could also refuse to grant No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to foreign players to play in the league.

The ball is in the government's court, the PM will take the final decision.

The situation has become tense due to threats issued by Pakistan after Bangladesh's exit. PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi has stated that the decision regarding Pakistan's participation in the World Cup will now be made at the highest level of the government. He stated that the final decision will be made only after Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif returns from his foreign tour. Naqvi accused the ICC of adopting "double standards" and said that Bangladesh is being treated unfairly.

Hybrid model is also in demand for Bangladesh

Speaking to the media, Mohsin Naqvi argued that if a hybrid model (under which Pakistan would play its matches in Colombo) can be adopted for Pakistan and India, why is Bangladesh not being afforded this facility? He pointed out that Bangladesh is also a full member of the ICC and a major stakeholder. Naqvi, without naming any names, said that no country can impose its conditions on another country. Given the ICC's currently tough stance, it is certain that if Pakistan resorts to boycott, its cricket economy and future could be in jeopardy.