Pakistan Halts T20 World Cup Preparations Backing Bangladesh on India Travel Issue

New Delhi: The Pakistan Cricket Board had stopped the preparations for T20 World Cup 2026 for the time being. The reason given was Bangladesh's confusion about coming to India. The tournament is to be held in India and Sri Lanka, but the Bangladeshi team has expressed concerns about security. Pakistan also decided to support Bangladesh on this matter.

Where did the matter start?

This whole controversy started after the news related to Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman. The news of his being dropped from IPL 2026 came to light, but no clear reason was given behind it. In Bangladesh, this was seen as unfair treatment of the players and from here the atmosphere started deteriorating.

Why does Bangladesh have a problem coming to India?

Bangladesh Cricket Board says that the safety of the players is their biggest concern. Some officials of the board also said internally that in the current situation they are not completely sure about sending the team to India.

Why did Pakistan support it?

The Pakistan Cricket Board openly supported Bangladesh on this issue. PCB told ICC that if Bangladesh does not want to go to India, then Pakistan will also support its point. The board even indicated that if needed, its stance regarding the tournament could be changed.

What demand did Bangladesh put forward?

The Bangladesh Board suggested that their matches should be held in Sri Lanka instead of India. He believes that this will not cause any hassle in traveling and there will be less concern regarding security.

What did ICC say?

ICC has assured Bangladesh that there will be complete security arrangements in India. It was also made clear that changing the schedule of the tournament is not easy. No final decision has been taken on this yet. There is definitely a discussion in the cricket circles that if Bangladesh withdraws then some other team may get a chance, in which the name of Scotland is being taken.

What will be its impact on the World Cup?

Bangladesh has been placed in a group with England, West Indies, Italy and Nepal. If he does not come to India, the picture of the entire group may change and ICC will have to make a fresh plan.

What are people saying in the cricket world?

Many former players and experts believe that sports should stay away from politics. At the same time, some people say that there can be no bigger issue than the safety of the players. At present this matter has become more a test of trust and relationships than cricket.