New Delhi: A fresh twist has added uncertainty to the unfolding T20 World Cup 2026 situation, with the possibility of Bangladesh returning to the tournament if Pakistan decides to pull out. The development comes days after Bangladesh was officially removed from the competition following its refusal to travel to India, citing security concerns.
The International Cricket Council had taken the long pending decision to exclude Bangladesh after the country’s cricket board insisted that its matches be shifted to a neutral venue. That demand was rejected after an independent security assessment and logistical review found no grounds for relocation. As a result, Bangladesh was replaced, bringing an end to months of uncertainty surrounding its participation.
However, with the tournament opener scheduled for February 7, a narrow window remains for Bangladesh to make a dramatic comeback. The possibility depends entirely on Pakistan, which was the only country to support Bangladesh’s request for neutral venues. Pakistan’s cricket board is reportedly weighing a potential boycott of the World Cup in solidarity with Bangladesh.
If Pakistan withdraws, Bangladesh would be offered the first opportunity to take its place in Group A. Under this scenario, Bangladesh would play all its matches in Sri Lanka, aligning with its original request and presenting minimal logistical challenges given the short timeframe before the tournament begins.
Pakistan has already announced its World Cup squad, but a final decision on whether the team will travel remains pending. Senior officials have described Bangladesh’s exclusion as unjust and indicated that consultations are underway at the highest political level before a final call is taken. A decision is expected within days, leaving very little time for adjustments to the tournament lineup.
Officials familiar with the situation have pointed out that a Pakistan withdrawal could violate an earlier understanding reached between the cricket boards of India and Pakistan and the ICC regarding participation arrangements. That agreement was central to resolving previous scheduling issues, and backing out now could have wider implications.
Adding to the complexity, reports suggest Pakistan is also considering an alternative approach of participating in the tournament while boycotting its high profile match against India in Colombo.
As the countdown to the T20 World Cup continues, the ICC faces a delicate balancing act, with Bangladesh’s potential return resting on Pakistan’s next move and the clock ticking fast.
