The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi is set to consult Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif over the highly sensitive issue of Pakistan’s match against India in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, following renewed efforts by the International Cricket Council (ICC).
According to sources, Mohsin Naqvi is expected to meet the Prime Minister within the next few days to seek formal guidance on the ICC’s request. Sources confirm that the final decision regarding the Pakistan vs India match in the T20 World Cup 2026 will be taken by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in line with state policy.
It is pertinent to recall that, on the instructions of the Government of Pakistan, the PCB had earlier decided to participate in the T20 World Cup but not to play against India. The stance was conveyed clearly to international cricket authorities, emphasizing that the matter falls under government jurisdiction rather than the cricket board alone.
Also Read: BCB President Aminul Islam arrives in Lahore amid ICC talks
Meanwhile, the ICC continues diplomatic efforts to convince Pakistan to reconsider its position. High-level negotiations are currently underway in Lahore, involving ICC Deputy Chairman Imran Khwaja and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) President Aminul Islam is also part of the ongoing discussions.
Sources revealed that the talks have continued for over three hours, with Mohsin Naqvi highlighting concerns over alleged unfair treatment toward Bangladesh in international cricket matters. During the meeting, Naqvi reportedly reiterated that the PCB’s decision was made under government directives, and any potential reversal would also require explicit government approval.
Earlier, BCB President Aminul Islam thanked Pakistan for its continued support during his meeting with the PCB Chairman, reflecting growing regional coordination amid critical ICC deliberations.
As the T20 World Cup 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, approaches, the Pakistan-India fixture remains one of the most politically and commercially significant issues in world cricket, with global attention now focused on the Prime Minister’s upcoming decision.
