'Do they have the guts... they are going to come': Rahane dismisses Pakistan's WC boycott threat

Pakistan’s participation in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 is uncertain following the exclusion of Bangladesh from the tournament. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued a warning that it might withdraw in protest, with PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi stating that the final decision would rest with the government and clarity is expected by Friday or early next week. The boycott threat is intended as a response to Bangladesh’s removal after the Bangladesh Cricket Board refused to play its matches in India and requested a shift of venue to Sri Lanka. The ICC rejected this request, and Bangladesh was subsequently replaced by Scotland.

Former India captain Ajinkya Rahane, speaking on a Cricbuzz show, dismissed the idea of a boycott, saying: “I don't think they can do that, I don't think they have, am I allowed to say guts? Yeah, I don't think they can do that. They are going to come.”

As per reports, the ICC has warned the PCB that failing to participate could result in serious disciplinary measures, including sanctions, suspension from international and regional tournaments, and withdrawal of No-Objection Certificates for overseas players in the Pakistan Super League. The PCB’s threat could potentially place the entire World Cup fixture in jeopardy. (With inputs from Agencies)