The uncertainty surrounding Pakistan’s participation in the impending ODI World Cup has increased in light of PCB chairman Najam Sethi’s latest comments. Sethi stated in his most recent press conference that the government’s approval is necessary before Pakistan’s participation in the World Cup, which India is hosting.
The 50-over World Cup is approximately four months away, but the BCCI has not yet released a schedule for the ICC’s marquee event. The Chairman of the Management Committee of the Pakistan Cricket Board, Najam Sethi, added a new element to the saga with his latest remarks.
When asked about Pakistan’s participation in the tournament, Sethi stated that the board had no say in the matter. He stated that the team would not travel to the neigh bouring country without government approval. In addition, the venues will require sanction from the Pakistani government. Sethi described the conditions in PCB response to the ICC regarding the World Cup schedule draft.
“We have informed the ICC in writing that we cannot approve or disapprove travel to India. Similar to India, our government makes this determination. Whether or not we will play in Ahmedabad will be determined later. When the time arrives, a decision will be made regarding whether or not we will travel.
The government will then dictate where we may play and where we may not. When asked about Pakistan’s participation, Sethi told the press, “We told the ICC that, subject to these conditions, we can tell you at any time whether we will play or not and where we can play.”
Uncertain of the government’s authority at the time: Najam Sethi
The PCB chief recalled Pakistan’s participation in the 2016 T20 World Cup, which was conducted in India.
Najam Sethi revealed that the Men in Green only travelled to India with the consent of then-prime minister Nawaz Sharif. He elaborated by stating that it was ‘premature’ to discuss the topic at this time, as the decision would not be made until after consultations with the Pakistani government.
“You recall what occurred in 2016?” India had never been here, but we travelled there instead. We had discussions regarding whether or not to go. After these discussions, we contacted the Prime Minister, Nawaz Sharif, who advised us to leave.
It is too early to discuss anything. It is uncertain which government will be in authority. However, once a stable government is in place and the time is appropriate, we will approach them. We have also informed the International Criminal Court that we will attend if our government, after reviewing the security conditions, grants its approval. “However, if they don’t, how can we come?” Najam Sethi noted.
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