The Pakistan men’s cricket team is halting their pre-departure practice session to support Bangladesh. The Pakistan Cricket Board under Mohsin Naqvi is on board with Bangladesh. Pakistan is scheduled to face Sri Lanka in three consecutive T20Is on 7th, 9th and 11th January, respectively, before the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
PCB is allegedly halting their national team’s participation in the training camp ahead of their departure to Sri Lanka. This event followed after ICC had given BCB the ultimatum and deadline.
According to the report published by Geo Super, the majority of Pakistan’s white-ball coaching staff, including head coach Mike Hesson, bowling coach Ashley Noffke, fielding coach Shane McDermott, physiotherapist Cliffe Deacon, and strength and conditioning coach Grant Luden, are supposed to meet the team in Sri Lanka.
Bangladesh’s primary concern about travelling to India revolves around the safety and security of its players, support staff, fans, and media personnel. Previously, Pakistan has acknowledged that these concerns are not unfounded. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) officials now stated that if the issue is not resolved, Pakistan may also reconsider its participation in the tournament.
It was revealed on Sunday that Bangladesh has sought both cricketing and administrative support from Pakistan. The Bangladesh Cricket Board has requested Pakistan to back its demands at the ICC. A source told NDTV, “The Bangladesh government has been in contact with the Pakistan Cricket Board. They have requested Pakistan to stand by them on the issue of participating in the T20 World Cup. Bangladesh has received a positive response so far. Pakistan has reportedly said that if Bangladesh’s concerns are not addressed, they themselves might consider pulling out of the World Cup.”
Pakistan are set to play their matches in Sri Lanka due to the ongoing political conflict. It was evident from the beginning that Bangladesh was probing to schedule their fixture in the island country as well. However, now after the ICC ultimatum, the BCB is trying to pressurise the BCCI with the help of the PCB. On a geopolitical level, after Bangladesh’s revolt in 2024, their relation with Pakistan has taken a positive turn.
Not more than a week ago, PCB chairman Naqvi conveyed his desire to organise Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup matches on Pakistani soil. Naqvi further assured that stadiums would be kept ready for the Bangladesh team along with necessary facilities. However, the PCB is yet to make any official statement on the matter so far.
