Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has conveyed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif that ensuring a stable and prosperous future for Pakistan cricket, alongside maintaining positive relations with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and its member boards, is the nation's top priority. This declaration followed a meeting on Monday where Naqvi briefed the Prime Minister on the escalating dispute involving the ICC. The meeting was held amid speculation that Pakistan might boycott its T20 World Cup group-stage clash against India. A final decision regarding Pakistan's participation is expected either by Friday or early next week.

The controversy stems from the ICC's decision to replace Bangladesh with Scotland in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, after Bangladesh expressed security concerns about touring India. The PCB has sharply criticized the ICC's move, alleging unfair treatment towards Bangladesh and a lack of consideration for neutral-venue arrangements as seen in other sensitive situations. Naqvi has openly accused the ICC of adopting "double standards" and alluded to undue influence in ICC decision-making, remarks widely interpreted as a veiled reference to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

During the meeting with PM Sharif, Naqvi presented a detailed briefing on the ICC matter. The Prime Minister has directed that the issue be resolved while keeping all options open. While a complete boycott of the T20 World Cup isn't the primary objective, Pakistan is reportedly considering forfeiting the February 15 match against India in Colombo. Sources suggest that Pakistan might frame the forfeiture as a government order to avoid potential ICC sanctions for political interference.

According to PCB officials, Pakistan is weighing multiple protest options that would allow it to participate in the tournament while registering its objections. These options include diplomatic engagement with the ICC, formal protests within ICC forums, or symbolic actions during the event.

Dismissing speculation of a potential boycott, sources clarified that the priority is to safeguard Pakistan cricket's future and maintain stable relations with the ICC and its member boards. The Indian government has not restricted India from playing Pakistan in ICC events or Asia Cup-level tournaments at neutral venues. Therefore, justifying a boycott against India would be difficult.

Pakistan's T20 World Cup campaign is scheduled to begin against the Netherlands on February 7 in Colombo, followed by matches against the United States on February 10, India on February 15, and Namibia on February 18. The Super Eight stage will run from February 21 to March 1, with matches split between Colombo and Kolkata.

The decision to replace Bangladesh with Scotland has sparked discontent within the PCB and the Pakistan government. The central government could deny permission for the men's team to travel if its concerns are not addressed.