PCB Raises Bangladesh Expulsion Dispute, Plans to Alert ICC Over T20 World Cup Black Armband Protest: Report

India, Jan 28 : The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is preparing to send a follow-up letter to the International Cricket Council (ICC) expressing its strong objection to Bangladesh’s exclusion from the T20 World Cup and raising concerns over how the governing body handled the situation.

Earlier, the PCB had written to the ICC ahead of the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s (BCB) deadline to confirm participation, voicing support for Bangladesh’s security concerns about travelling to India. According to Telecom Asia Sport, the PCB will now formally communicate its disappointment and notify the ICC of a potential symbolic protest during the tournament, should Pakistan participate.

Sources said Pakistani players may wear black armbands in the World Cup as a mark of protest, pending official clearance.

The PCB’s first letter, shared with all member boards, reiterated support for Bangladesh and offered to host the team’s matches in Pakistan as an alternative. Meanwhile, the PCB is awaiting a final decision from the Pakistan government on whether the national team will participate in the tournament. Discussions included options such as a full boycott, forfeiting the match against India, wearing black armbands, or dedicating victories to Bangladeshi supporters.

PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has accused the ICC of “double standards,” pointing out that India was allowed to shift its Champions Trophy matches to Dubai last year while Pakistan was denied hosting rights over security concerns. “You can’t have double standards. One country can do as it wishes, while others face the opposite,” Naqvi said.

The PCB has maintained that Bangladesh, a key stakeholder in international cricket, should be allowed to compete in the T20 World Cup. A final announcement on Pakistan’s stance is expected on Monday.