The cricket fraternity is gripped by a high-stakes showdown between the ICC and BCB, with Pakistan’s PCB firmly in Bangladesh’s corner. Najam Sethi, ex-PCB head, openly endorsed PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi’s position on Friday, spotlighting India’s dominant role in ICC decisions.
Bangladesh’s bold refusal to play in India stems from safety fears, amplified post the BCCI-mandated IPL exit of star bowler Mustafizur Rahman. BCB sought neutral venues like Sri Lanka for their T20 World Cup 2026 fixtures, but ICC stonewalled the plea. A board vote exposed the isolation: Pakistan alone voted yes.
‘Naqvi gets cricket inside out. His call on boycotting or not will be the right one,’ Sethi declared. He appealed to global boards for solidarity, envisioning a coalition that forces ICC to prioritize fairness over one nation’s clout. ‘This isn’t the Indian Cricket Council—it’s international,’ he quipped.
Background reveals deeper friction. Bangladesh slapped a ban on IPL telecasts after Rahman’s release, signaling retaliation. Now, with tournament kickoff looming in under two weeks, BCB has locked in its no-travel policy. ICC is reportedly finalizing Scotland’s inclusion, potentially reshaping group dynamics.
Sethi’s intervention adds fuel, positioning Pakistan as Bangladesh’s lone ally. Will other nations step up? The coming days could redefine ICC governance and World Cup participation, testing alliances in the gentleman’s game.