Speaking to the media, Naqvi remarked that the PCB is accountable to the Pakistani government more than the ICC, highlighting what he described as inconsistent rules applied to India and Bangladesh. ‘We will follow whatever the government instructs,’ he said, adding that any decision regarding Pakistan’s participation will be made after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s return to the country.
Naqvi accused the ICC of adopting a double standard, arguing that Bangladesh, as a major stakeholder, deserved an uninterrupted opportunity to compete in the World Cup. He emphasized that no single country should dictate terms in international cricket.
He further explained that the PCB has already prepared Plans A, B, and C, ready to implement once the government announces its stance. ‘First, let the government give its decision,” Naqvi said, “after that, we are fully prepared.’
The controversy stems from Bangladesh refusing to send its team to India, citing security concerns, and requesting an alternative venue, a request that was rejected by the ICC. Following this, the ICC decided to replace Bangladesh with Scotland in the T20 World Cup lineup.
Naqvi’s comments underscore the ongoing tensions between cricket governance and national authority, and highlight Pakistan’s commitment to aligning international participation with national interests.
