Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi has criticized International Cricket Council (ICC) for replacing Bangladesh with Scotland in Group C of the upcoming T20 World Cup, calling it an injustice to the Tigers.
Speaking to the media on Saturday, Naqvi said, “Injustice is being done to Bangladesh and they must be allowed to play in the World Cup under all circumstances. They are a major stakeholder and this should not happen to them.”
He also addressed concerns over Pakistan’s participation in the tournament, scheduled from February 7 to March 8 in India and Sri Lanka.
Naqvi said Pakistan’s involvement would depend on the directive of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
“Our stance will align with whatever the government instructs. We are accountable to the government more than ICC,” he explained.
ICC’s recent decision follows Bangladesh’s request to play their matches in Sri Lanka due to tensions with India.
Despite this, ICC opted to replace the Tigers with Scotland; a move likely to impact Bangladesh Cricket Board, the national team and the tournament’s commercial ecosystem.
Naqvi further questioned ICC’s double standards, noting that a similar compromise had been allowed for Pakistan and India.
“Bangladesh is a full member like Pakistan. If such favours are granted to others, they should be extended to Bangladesh as well. One country cannot dictate to others,” he said.
Commenting on Pakistan’s contingency plans, Naqvi added, “We have plans A, B, C and D ready if the government decides we should boycott the tournament or if another team replaces us. The final decision will come after consulting the Prime Minister.”
SH
