Pakistan’s participation in ICC T20 World Cup is uncertain. A final decision is expected soon, but so far no official announcement has been made. The situation has resulted in speculation among fans and in cricket circles as well.
According to sources, the Chairman of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Mohsin Naqvi is to meet the Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif this evening. The meeting is anticipated to centre around the question of whether the national team is to participate in the tournament. After the discussion, there is likely to be a formal statement clarifying the position of Pakistan.
In case Pakistan decides not to participate then the PCB has reportedly prepared a contingency strategy. Under this proposed ‘Plan B’, the Pakistan Shaheens, and the Under-19 squad would be divided into 4 separate teams.
These teams would then play a domestic tournament at Lahore. The goal of this move would be to ensure that players do not lack competitive match practice because they didn’t participate in the World Cup.
On the other hand, if it is confirmed that Pakistan will take part, then preparations will proceed accordingly. The national team’s official kit unveiling ceremony that was due to be held but was postponed due to the uncertainty that has been prevailing will be held as well after the final decision is made public.
Meanwhile much-anticipated Pakistan-India clash scheduled to be played in Colombo, on February 15 and has also attracted attention.
Former Indian captain Kapil Dev was asked to comment on the match in the time of current political tensions. He said it would not be good for the former players to make comments on such sensitive issues.
Kapil has emphasised that the decisions of this nature should be left to the concerned authorities. He added that he would support whatever decision is taken by the relevant bodies and stressed the importance of keeping out of the way of making unnecessary statements.
For now fans and officials are waiting. The final decision is left to the PCB, which will decide if Pakistan would feature in this year’s T20 World Cup.
Also read: Pakistan T20 World Cup jersey unveiling postponed over ‘unavoidable reasons’
