Pakistan’s evaluation of participating in the ICC World Cup in India is underway, according to the country’s foreign ministry. The two nations have not engaged in bilateral series since 2012, and with doubts over Pakistan’s participation, the schedule and venues for the Cricket World Cup remain unconfirmed with just a few months left.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has also requested the International Cricket Council (ICC) to change the venues of their matches against Australia and Afghanistan in order to improve their chances. However, venue changes at ICC events are typically only made in response to security concerns.
The issue of cricketing ties between India and Pakistan has been strained, with India refusing to travel to Pakistan for the upcoming Asia Cup, leading to threats of a World Cup boycott from Pakistan. In a compromise, the Asian Cricket Council has announced a hybrid model for the Asia Cup, with matches split between Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
Pakistan’s foreign ministry spokesperson emphasized that politics should not mix with sports and expressed disappointment in India’s policy of not playing cricket in Pakistan. They further stated that Pakistan is evaluating all aspects, including the security situation, and will provide their views to the PCB in due course.
The situation highlights the complexities and uncertainties surrounding Pakistan’s participation in the World Cup, adding further intrigue to the tournament’s preparations. The outcome of the evaluation will determine the future course of action for the Men in Green and their participation in the prestigious ICC event.
