The diplomatic dispute over the upcoming T20 World Cup has grown sharper just hours before a key deadline, with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) stepping in to support Bangladesh’s decision not to play in India.
On Tuesday, the PCB sent a letter to the International Cricket Council (ICC) and its board members, backing the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s claim that the current political situation in India raises security concerns. ESPNcricinfo first reported the development.
The move came a day before the ICC board is due to meet on Wednesday to take a final decision on Bangladesh’s participation in the tournament.
The ICC has called an emergency meeting to settle the issue, as the standoff threatens to disrupt the World Cup less than three weeks before it is scheduled to start. However, sources say the PCB’s intervention is unlikely to change the ICC’s position.
The ICC has already informed the BCB that the tournament schedule will not be altered and that Bangladesh’s matches will not be shifted to co-host Sri Lanka. Bangladesh, with support from its government, has refused to travel to India, leaving both sides at a stalemate.
In recent days, there has been speculation that Pakistan could also reconsider its participation depending on how the Bangladesh issue is resolved. Although the PCB has not made any public statement, its letter shows clear support for Bangladesh’s stand.
The dispute began after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) asked IPL side Kolkata Knight Riders to release Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman, citing worsening political relations. In response, the Bangladesh government blocked the national team from touring India.
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