Rashid Latif Calls For Pakistan Boycott of T20 World Cup 2026 After Mohsin Naqvi’s Threat

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif had urged Pakistan to join Bangladesh in boycotting the 2026 T20 World Cup, warning that the tournament’s quality and global appeal would suffer without Pakistan.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has urged the Pakistan cricket team to follow Bangladesh’s example and withdraw from the 2026 T20 World Cup. Latif believes the tournament will lose its competitive edge and global appeal if Pakistan do not take part, leading to a sharp fall in viewership worldwide.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) recently confirmed Bangladesh’s removal from the tournament after the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) refused to send its team to India, citing security concerns. Scotland were named as Bangladesh’s replacement. Soon after the development, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi said he would consult the Pakistan government before confirming whether Pakistan would also boycott the event.

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Latif strongly feels that Pakistan’s absence would significantly damage the tournament’s stature. “If Pakistan don’t go, everything will be toppled and it won’t remain a World Cup. There can be matches like Australia versus India, but the World Cup level will be destroyed and the tournament will be finished. From today’s press conference, it looked like they are already walking on that path.”

“When the PCB chairman says he will speak to the government, it feels that conversation has already happened and this is only about extending the episode. By sticking to their position, Bangladesh have shown they are clean and clear while keeping their country in mind. Now for Pakistan, it’s time to stop talking and take action,” Latif said, as quoted by The Indian Express.

Latif Explains Why Pakistan Should Boycott World Cup

Latif based his argument on the massive global interest in India-Pakistan matches, which he described as vital for the ICC’s broadcast revenue. He pointed out that if Pakistan withdraws, Uganda, currently ranked 21st, would be next in line to replace them.

“At least 50 percent of people want to watch India versus Pakistan and that interest will completely die down if Pakistan are not there. After Pakistan also join Bangladesh, then things will come to the bargaining table. If Bangladesh are alone, they will face sanctions, but if Pakistan pull out too, it won’t be a World Cup at all — it will just be the IPL.”

“If Pakistan withdraw, the news will go worldwide, especially because the India market drives global broadcast revenue. Just imagine if Uganda replaces Pakistan and India are playing Uganda in Ahmedabad to a full house,” he said.

With uncertainty surrounding Pakistan’s participation and strong reactions from former players, the future shape of the 2026 T20 World Cup remains under intense scrutiny.