The has not yet confirmed Pakistan’s participation for the T20 World Cup, but the leaked travel plans are a big enough indication that the team is all set to feature in the marquee event.
But there is no formal communication from the PCB about the T20 World Cup plans, so nothing can be taken for granted, given the workings of the PCB. Mohsin Naqvi recently met the Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif to discuss the matter, and reserved the decision till Monday, on the same day the team is expected to leave for Sri Lanka.
What Will Happen If PCB Boycott T20 World Cup?
A Pakistan boycott is very unlikely, especially with the World Cup just a few days away. However, PCB will try to keep the and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on their toes till the last moment. They may also create unnecessary controversies by threatening to boycott the India clash, or wearing black armbands, as reported by many media outlets, but it won’t please the ICC, which might impose heavy sanctions on the PCB. Reportedly, Pakistan could lose out of playing bilateral series against ICC members while the apex body might also ban players from taking part in the PSL. In that case, the PCB will lose a significant part of its earnings, which will leave the board on the cusp of a collapse.
Pakistan’s Schedule For T20 World Cup
Pakistan are clubbed in Group A, with India, USA, Namibia, and the Netherlands. Pakistan will kick off the tournament against the Netherlands on February 7 and will play the USA on February 10. The big match against India is scheduled for February 15, while the final group stage against Namibia will take place on February 18.