PCB chief says ICC-Bangladesh talks ongoing, Pakistan to respond after official word

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi on Monday said negotiations between the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Bangladesh Cricket Board were still underway, adding that Pakistan would comment only after receiving official communication.

Speaking to reporters in Lahore following the Multan Sultans auction ceremony, Naqvi said the issue that emerged during the World Cup was primarily between Bangladesh and the ICC.

“Bangladesh is a brotherly country. We did what was necessary to support them,” he said.

Referring to the ongoing discussions, Naqvi remarked that issues often ease when dialogue takes place. “When guests come to your home themselves, many issues are forgotten. We have always believed in respecting guests,” he added.

Responding to a question regarding potential ICC sanctions, the PCB chairman said neither he nor the government was concerned about any threats.

“I am not afraid of threats, nor is the government. And you know the Field Marshal [Syed Asim Munir] as well,” Naqvi said.

He further stated that several friendly countries were in contact with Pakistan on the issue and had been briefed on Islamabad’s position, expressing confidence that clarity would emerge soon.

Meanwhile, sources said ICC efforts to persuade Pakistan to play India in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 had entered a critical phase.

In this regard, a four-hour meeting was held in Lahore on Sunday between Naqvi and ICC Deputy Chairman Imran Khawaja, during which the World Cup, the proposed Pakistan–India fixture and other cricket-related matters were discussed.

Sources added that the PCB conveyed it was not seeking any special concessions but would not remain silent over what it termed injustice towards Bangladesh.