Rashid Latif, former Pakistan wicketkeeper, gets candid about Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2026 participation.
In a recent encounter with a YouTube channel, CaughtBehind, Latif stated, Pakistan could still choose not to play against India. The same applies should both teams face each other in the championship match.
“If the government says we won’t play against India, the ICC will have to accept it,” Latif said. “If they don’t, that’s where the real confrontation begins.”
When asked what if India and Pakistan qualify for the finals, Latif bluntly replied, “Nahi khelenge” (we won’t play).
He further expressed his belief that Pakistan should have pulled out from the competition immediately after Bangladesh’s demise. He said, “The time for a strike has passed. Every decision has a timing. You should strike while the iron is hot. That time was last week during the ICC meeting.”
He added, “We showed our support. We voted for them. That chapter is over. If we boycott now, it won’t have the same impact.”
Pakistan’s window for deciding their actions regarding the T20 World Cup 2026 has been shut, as the national board waits for the clearance from the government.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi recently consulted Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif regarding Pakistan’s stance in the upcoming tournament. This follows the ICC’s decision to move the tournament from Bangladesh. While a final decision is expected by 2nd February, the board has already arranged for the team to fly to Colombo.
The squad’s scheduled departure suggests Pakistan will not boycott the event. It also points to their participation in the high-stakes match against India on February 15. Although there was speculation about a withdrawal, the PCB is now likely to confirm its participation formally.
Previously, Naqvi decided to give their final statement on Friday. However, the continuous delay is causing frustration amongst the fraternity.
