Naqvi Calls Treatment of Bangladesh Unjust, Urges ICC to Allow World Cup Participation

Amid growing uncertainty and diplomatic tension surrounding the T20 World Cup, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman and Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President Mohsin Naqvi has come out strongly in support of Bangladesh. He said Bangladesh has been treated unfairly for refusing to play the tournament in India and insisted the country must be allowed to participate in the World Cup under any circumstances.

Speaking to the media in Lahore on Saturday, Naqvi addressed Bangladesh’s situation and said, **“Bangladesh has been treated unjustly. I said the same thing in the International Cricket Council (ICC) board meeting as well. Double standards cannot be allowed—one decision for one country and a completely opposite approach for another is unacceptable.”**

Emphasising Bangladesh’s importance in international cricket, Naqvi questioned the ICC’s stance and called for equal treatment. He said, **“That is why we have taken a clear position that Bangladesh is being treated unfairly and they should be allowed to play in the World Cup under any circumstances. They are a major stakeholder, and such injustice towards them is not right.”**

The PCB chief also spoke out against imposing decisions on sovereign cricket boards. Making Pakistan’s position clear, he said, **“One country cannot dictate terms to another. If such directives are forced, then Pakistan will definitely have its own position.”**

Highlighting Bangladesh’s full membership status in the ICC, Naqvi reiterated the demand for parity. He said, **“Bangladesh is a full ICC member just like Pakistan. Our position is clear—if this facility has been given to Pakistan and India, then Bangladesh must be given the same facility.”**

Responding to another question, Naqvi said the ICC could also be approached with a proposal for a ‘hybrid model’ for Bangladesh, similar to the arrangement previously applied in the case of India and Pakistan.

When asked about the possibility of boycotting the World Cup, Naqvi said the final decision would be taken by the Pakistani government. Explaining the process, he said, **“We are waiting for the Prime Minister to return. A final decision will be taken once he comes back.”**

Asked whether Pakistan has any alternative plans if it does not participate in the World Cup, Naqvi replied confidently, **“Let the decision come first. We have Plan A, B, C, D—everything.”**