Pakistan’s T20 World Cup Participation in Doubt as Travel Plans Leak Sparks Controversy

Islamabad | 31 January 2026 Pakistan’s participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup remains uncertain, despite reports suggesting that the squad is set to travel to Sri Lanka on February 2. The travel plan reportedly involves an Air Lanka flight that could also carry the Australian team. However, the uncertainty continues to linger, as no clear official confirmation has been issued by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). A leaked PCB press release appeared to confirm the travel details, but it was later republished with a paragraph removed, intensifying speculation. Several Pakistani journalists also shared the development on social media. According to sources, while the squad’s logistical movement would usually indicate participation, the lack of formal clarity has fueled further intrigue just days before the tournament, which starts on February 7 across India and Sri Lanka. At the centre of the debate is PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, whose administration has struggled to separate political considerations from cricketing decisions. Pakistan’s stance, reportedly influenced by a Bangladesh-related flashpoint, has drawn limited support from ICC circles, leaving the PCB isolated. Analysts note that any escalation, including skipping matches, could result in sanctions, financial losses, and a perception of instability for Pakistan cricket. Questions also surround consistency. If Pakistan’s position targets only a specific opponent, what would happen if a knockout match pits them against India? And if the stance is framed as a broader principle, does it apply beyond the senior team? Meanwhile, India has remained focused on cricket, finalising selection discussions and team balance ahead of the tournament. Pakistan’s T20 World Cup Travel Plans Fuel Uncertainty Ahead of Tournament Pakistan’s T20 World Cup participation remains unclear, even as reports suggest the squad is scheduled to travel to Sri Lanka on February 2. The team is expected to take an Air Lanka flight, which may also carry the Australian squad. Despite these reports, no official confirmation from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been released, keeping fans and officials guessing about the team’s final stance. Earlier, a PCB press release appeared to confirm the travel plans, but it was later republished with a paragraph removed, raising more questions. Several Pakistani journalists also highlighted this change on social media. As per sources, while the team’s movement usually signals participation, the absence of clear confirmation has created confusion just days before the tournament begins on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka. The situation is complicated by political considerations within Pakistan cricket. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has faced criticism for not keeping politics separate from cricket decisions. Reports suggest Pakistan’s cautious approach may be influenced by a Bangladesh-related issue. Experts warn that any decision to skip matches could lead to sanctions, financial losses, and damage the country’s cricketing reputation. Concerns about consistency also remain. If Pakistan’s position targets only a particular opponent, questions arise about future knockout matches against India. Additionally, it is unclear whether the stance would apply beyond the senior team. Meanwhile, India is focused on finalising team selections and preparing the squad for the tournament without distraction.