T20 World Cup: Former Pakistan Players Slam PCB's 'Self-Destructive' Bangladesh Support Stance

T20 World Cup: Former Pakistan cricketers and board officials have urged the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to prioritise national cricket welfare over support with Bangladesh, warning against debilitating relations with the International Cricket Council (ICC).

The plea comes as the PCB deliberates on whether to participate in the upcoming T20 World Cup, with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi suggesting that Friday or Monday be the deadline for confirming Pakistan's participation or withdrawal from the World Cup.

Former Pakistan captain Muhammad Hafeez has suggested that the PCB send the national team to the World Cup, echoing the sentiments of ex-PCB chairman Khalid Mahmood and secretary Arif Ali Abbasi.

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"I can understand Pakistan supporting Bangladesh but what purpose will PCB achieve by not sending its team apart from spoiling relations with the International Cricket Council and member boards," Abbasi said.

"What about our relations with Sri Lanka?. Obviously, Sri Lanka will suffer losses if Pakistan doesn't go as all our matches are in Sri Lanka, including matches with India," he said.

Khalid Mahmood lauded the PCB's perspective but emphasised it must prioritise Pakistan cricket interests.

"We have to remember that, except for Pakistan, no other cricket board supported the Bangladesh demand to move matches from India. I can understand the stance taken by the Bangladesh board, but it is also a fact that no one supported them in the ICC meeting," Mahmood said.

Former Test batsman and ex chief selector and head coach, Mohsin Khan said, "We have issues with India but we are playing all our matches in Sri Lanka. So then on what grounds will the PCB not send its team to World Cup? It will be bad for our cricket."

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Former Pakistan captains Inzamam ul Haq and Muhammad Yousuf advised caution, stating the PCB should consider all factors before making a decision.

"I personally would like to see Pakistan compete in the World Cup. We have some good players and our cricket needs to see our team doing well in big events," Inzamam said.