Amid ICC T20 World Cup 2026 Participation Limbo, Pakistan Defers Official Jersey Launch, Triggers Boycott Rumours

Uncertainty is hovering over Pakistan's participation in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. The Pakistan Cricket Board is still waiting to receive a clearance from their government, but time is running out as the T20 World Cup is almost knocking on the door.

Pakistan Postponed T20 World Cup Jersey Launch

Pakistan reportedly already have booked their flight arrangements before venturing into their T20 World Cup journey, which could signal their intention towards taking part in the showpiece event. But recent reports revealed that Pakistan have deferred the launch of their official jersey for the T20 World Cup. They were supposed to reveal the kit following the toss in the second T20I against Australia at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium. But it has now been postponed, and Pakistan continues to play the waiting game.

PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi had earlier met with the Pakistani Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, and a decision is likely to be conveyed on Monday. Pakistan are scheduled to face the Netherlands in the T20 World Cup opener on February 7 in Colombo.

As per the earlier agreement between ICC, PCB and BCCI, Pakistan's matches will be held in Sri Lanka and if they manage to reach the T20 World Cup final, the summit clash will be held in the island nation only. Paksiatn crashed out of the T20 World Cup in the last edition after a shocking loss to the USA.

Bangladesh Had Requested To Relocate T20 World Cup Matches

The PCB chairman had earlier accused ICC of playing double games after cricket's governing body replaced Bangladesh with Scotland. Bangladesh had lodged a request to relocate their games from India to Sri Lanka, citing security concerns.

But ICC reviewed security arrangements and rejected Bangladesh's plea. The situation arose after BCCI directed KKR to release Mustafizur Rahman from their IPL 2026 squad. 

Also Read: Pat Cummins Ruled Out of ICC T20 World Cup 2026 Due to Injury. Cricket Australia Name Replacement