Former Pakistan Wicketkeeper Rashid Latif Criticizes Delayed Decision on T20 World Cup Participation
Former Pakistan wicketkeeper Rashid Latif has issued a strong critique regarding the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Pakistan's participation in the T20 World Cup 2026. Latif emphasized that the window for decisive action has already closed, even as the Pakistan Cricket Board awaits formal clearance from the government.
PCB Chairman's Meeting with Prime Minister
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi recently held discussions with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to deliberate on Pakistan's stance following the International Cricket Council's decision to remove Bangladesh as a host nation. While Naqvi has indicated that the final approval is still pending, the board has proactively scheduled the squad's departure to Colombo for February 2. This move effectively rules out any possibility of a boycott of the tournament or the highly anticipated February 15 clash against India.
A formal confirmation of Pakistan's participation is anticipated from the PCB in the coming days, putting an end to widespread speculation.
Media Speculation and Internal Discussions
Speculation has been rampant in various media circles, suggesting that Pakistan might consider withdrawing from the tournament altogether or refusing to face India. Pakistan has publicly expressed solidarity with Bangladesh, and internal discussions reportedly took place regarding the potential boycott of either the entire event or specifically the match against India.
Latif's Blunt Assessment and Missed Opportunity
Latif, however, believes that Pakistan moved too slowly in responding to the situation. While acknowledging that the ultimate decision rests with the government, he feels that the opportunity to make a meaningful and impactful statement has already passed. He maintained that although pulling out of the tournament entirely may now be logistically difficult, Pakistan could still opt out of playing against India, even if the two teams were to meet in the final.
"If the government says we won't play against India, the ICC will have to accept it," Latif asserted. "If they don't, that's where the real confrontation begins."
When questioned about the scenario where both India and Pakistan qualify for the final, Latif was unequivocal in his response: "Nahi khelenge" (we won't play).
Timing of the Protest and Lost Impact
Latif argued that Pakistan should have withdrawn immediately after the ICC's decision to shift the tournament away from Bangladesh. Speaking on the YouTube channel CaughtBehind, he elaborated: "The time for a strike has passed. Every decision has a timing. You should strike while the iron is hot. That time was last week during the ICC meeting."
He further added: "We showed our support. We voted for them. That chapter is over. If we boycott now, it won't have the same impact."
Growing Frustration and Pending Decision
Chairman Naqvi has stated that the final decision on Pakistan's participation in the T20 World Cup 2026 will be confirmed either this Friday or next Monday. However, Latif's remarks underscore a growing sense of frustration over what he perceives as a delayed and diluted response from the cricket board and government authorities.
The situation remains fluid, with all eyes on the upcoming announcement that will determine Pakistan's role in one of cricket's most prestigious global tournaments.
