Former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Khalid Mahmood has called on Pakistan to boycott T20 World Cup 2026 following Bangladesh’s exclusion from the tournament.
The ICC confirmed that Scotland will replace Bangladesh after the latter refused to send its team to India, citing security concerns. The T20 World Cup 2026 is set to feature 20 teams and begins in less than a month.
Speaking to ARY News, Khalid Mahmood criticized the International Cricket Council (ICC) for what he called undue Indian influence. He highlighted that ICC chairman Jay Shah and several key officials are Indian, raising concerns about fairness in decision-making.
“Bangladesh’s concerns are valid. How can players compete in a country where they feel unsafe?” Mahmood asked. He recalled the 2009 terrorist attack on the Sri Lanka team in Lahore, noting that countries refused to tour Pakistan then, and ICC support was minimal.
Mahmood stressed that Pakistan should stand with Bangladesh and warned that financial or sporting pressures should not dictate participation. “Other nations are not slaves to India. Pakistan should take a firm stance,” he said, urging the country to boycott T20 World Cup 2026 if safety concerns remain unaddressed.
Reports suggest the PCB could face financial and sporting repercussions if it pulls out. However, Mahmood argued that Pakistan must prioritize player safety and solidarity over monetary consequences. He further recommended convening an emergency ICC meeting to address security concerns.
“The ICC should act to ensure all teams feel safe. Pakistan’s participation under the current circumstances would be a mistake,” he added.
With the tournament just weeks away, Pakistan’s decision on whether to boycott T20 World Cup 2026 will be closely watched. Fans and cricketing authorities await the PCB’s official stance on joining the mega event in India amid growing safety concerns.
In other news read more about: How much Financial Loss will Bangladesh Face by Skipping the T20 World Cup?
