 "Pakistan have already announced their squad for the T20 World Cup. Image: AFP")
Pakistan’s participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 continues to hang in the balance, with a final decision expected later today. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly kept a Plan B ready in case the team decides to boycott the global tournament, which is scheduled to begin on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka.
According to a report by Pakistani media outlet Daily Ausaf, an important meeting is likely to take place this evening between Pakistan Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. The outcome of this meeting is expected to determine whether the Pakistan cricket team will travel for the T20 World Cup or opt out of the tournament.
The report further claims that if Pakistan decide to participate, the team’s official T20 World Cup kit will be unveiled shortly after the decision is made. The PCB had earlier postponed the jersey launch , reportedly due to uncertainty over their participation in the tournament.
PCB’s Plan B if Pakistan boycott T20 World Cup
At the same time, the PCB has reportedly prepared an alternative plan if a boycott happens. As per Daily Ausaf, Pakistan’s senior national team, Pakistan Shaheens and the Under-19 squad will be divided into four teams. These four sides would then compete in a domestic tournament in Lahore during the World Cup window.
Earlier reports had suggested that the PCB was expected to announce its decision by February 2. While a complete boycott of the World Cup in support of Bangladesh has been termed unlikely, the delay in communication has fuelled uncertainty around Pakistan’s participation.
Pakistan are currently placed in Group A of the T20 World Cup 2026 and are scheduled to begin their campaign against the Netherlands on February 7. India, the USA and Namibia are the other teams in the group. Under the previously agreed hybrid model, all of Pakistan’s group-stage matches are set to be played in Sri Lanka, even though India is the main host.