Pakistan has formally backed Bangladesh’s request to shift its Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 matches away from India, adding a new layer of pressure on the International Cricket Council ahead of a crucial decision.
According to reports, the Pakistan Cricket Board sent an official letter to the ICC on Tuesday, supporting the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s refusal to play matches in India due to security and regional concerns. The communication was also circulated among ICC Board members.
The ICC is expected to take up the matter during a Board meeting on Wednesday, with Bangladesh seeking to relocate its fixtures to Sri Lanka, which is co-hosting the tournament alongside India. The timing of Pakistan’s support has intensified scrutiny around the issue.
Despite growing pressure, ICC officials have so far indicated that the tournament schedule should remain unchanged. Sources say Bangladesh was informed during recent discussions that shifting matches out of India is currently not under consideration.
Bangladesh, backed by its government, has maintained a firm stance against travelling to India. Talks between the ICC and BCB, including meetings held in Dhaka, have failed to produce a compromise, with January 21 reportedly set as a deadline.
The dispute escalated after Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman was removed from an IPL franchise, worsening diplomatic tensions. With Pakistan now involved, the ICC faces a sensitive decision that could impact the tournament’s stability.
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