Source HT
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi has issued a sharp warning to the International Cricket Council (ICC) following Bangladesh’s exit from the T20 World Cup being held in India, questioning the fairness and structure of the tournament.
Reacting to Bangladesh’s elimination, Naqvi suggested that the ICC’s handling of the event raises serious concerns about competitive balance and scheduling. In a strongly worded remark, the PCB chief said that if such issues continue, the ICC might as well “bring a 22nd team” into the competition, a comment widely seen as sarcasm aimed at what he described as inconsistent planning and decision-making.
Naqvi’s comments come amid growing criticism from several cricket boards over pitch conditions, travel schedules, and perceived advantages for certain teams in the India-hosted tournament. While he did not directly accuse the ICC of bias, his remarks underscored frustration among participating nations about transparency and equal treatment.
“The ICC must ensure that all teams compete on a level playing field,” Naqvi said, adding that credibility of global tournaments depends on fairness, not just commercial success.
Bangladesh’s early exit has sparked debate within the cricketing community, with former players and analysts also questioning whether tournament logistics and conditions played a role in the team’s performance.
The ICC has so far not officially responded to Naqvi’s comments. However, sources indicate that concerns raised by member boards could be discussed in upcoming ICC meetings, especially with future global events already in the planning stages.
As the T20 World Cup progresses, the controversy has added a political edge to the on-field action, highlighting long-standing tensions between cricket boards and the sport’s global governing body.
