T20 World Cup: ICC board meets today as Pakistan backs Bangladesh’s against matches in India

Pakistan has officially thrown its support behind Bangladesh’s bid to move its Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 games away from India, citing security concerns and regional tensions.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) formally communicated its backing to the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday, supporting the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s (BCB) refusal to play in India. The letter was also shared with ICC Board members, making Pakistan’s stance a matter of record ahead of key deliberations.

The ICC is set to discuss Bangladesh’s request in a Board meeting on Wednesday. The BCB wants its fixtures relocated to Sri Lanka, co-host of the tournament. While the ICC has previously insisted the schedule should remain unchanged, Pakistan’s involvement adds pressure to a tense situation just weeks before the World Cup.

Bangladesh, supported by its government, remains firm on not traveling to India for group-stage matches. Multiple discussions between the ICC and BCB, including meetings in Dhaka last weekend, have yet to produce a resolution. Reports indicate January 21 was the deadline for clarity.

Speculation has circulated about potential solutions, including Pakistan possibly hosting Bangladesh’s matches or reassessing its own participation. The PCB has not publicly commented on these claims.

The dispute dates back to Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman’s abrupt IPL removal, which escalated tensions. Domestic unrest in Bangladesh, including player protests in the Bangladesh Premier League, has further complicated matters.

With ICC deliberations imminent, the next 24 hours could determine whether Bangladesh’s request is approved or if the tournament faces a major participation crisis.