Pakistan hope for ‘brother’ Bangladesh support in T20 World Cup 2026; ‘It’s a pity that they are not playing’

Calling Bangladesh as their brothers, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha stated that its a pity that the Asian nation is not a part of the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026, that starts in a couple of day's time. Bangladesh were initially among the 20 participating teams in the 10th edition of the cricketing extravaganza, but were replaced by Scotland at the last minute.

After Mustafizur Rahman was unceremoniously removed from the Indian Premier League (IPL), the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) refused to play their t20 World Cup 2026 matches on Indian soil. Instead the BCB requested the International Cricket Council (ICC) for a venue shift which the apex body rejected citing there is no threat in playing in India.

Reacting for the first time on the issue, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha called its a ‘sad’ moment but hoped that Bangladesh will support them in the tournament. “They are our brothers," Salman Agha said on Thursday during the pre-tournament captain's meet in Colombo.

"I would say they can support us in the tournament. It’s really sad to see them not playing in the World Cup. Hopefully, they will continue to support us throughout the tournament as well,” added Salman Agha.

Grouped in Pool C along with Nepal, West Indies, England and Italy, Bangladesh were scheduled to play three of their group games at Kolkata's iconic Eden Gardens and another at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium.