Mohsin Naqvi’s World Cup Boycott Threat Triggers Uncertainty Among Pakistani Cricketers

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi’s public claims about a potential boycott of the 2026 T20 World Cup have triggered uncertainty among their star cricketers who aren’t sure whether they should continue preparing for the marquee tournament.

Playing in a World Cup remains on top of a player’s list, but Naqvi has said that a decision on Pakistan’s participation rests with the government. PCB has been quite vocal while showing support to the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) after they refused to travel to India citing security concerns.

However, PCB’s stance has left their World Cup-bound stars uncertain.

To allay the fears and clarify the board’s position, Naqvi is reportedly set to meet the World Cup squad on Sunday.

“Naqvi has decided

to meet the players of the World Cup squad announced on Sunday to brief them on the team’s participation in the T20I World Cup, as there remains uncertainty after Bangladesh was thrown out of the World Cup in an unjust decision,” Telecom Asia Sport quoted a source as saying on Sunday.

“Players, including skipper Salman Agha, have discussed this and were slightly uncertain whether they should keep preparing for the World Cup or not, and in this regard, the chairman’s briefing will help them,” the source added.

Pakistan announced their 15-man squad for the tournament on Sunday. The competition will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7.

Pakistan selector Aaqib Javed says the final call on the team’s participation will be taken by the PCB and national government.

“As players and management, we are preparing for the World Cup, and it is up to the PCB and government to take a final call,” Javed said.