Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has warned the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) against the idea of pulling out of the tournament, saying it would result in massive losses for broadcasters, who would be left in serious trouble if the India–Pakistan game does not take place as scheduled.
On Saturday, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi put Pakistan’s participation under the scanner by saying that the government would decide whether the Men in Green would take part in the major event or not.
“If Pakistan don’t play the World Cup, then the broadcaster will be on the road. If Pakistan pull out, then which team will replace them? If India play against a replacement team, will that match attract the same eyeballs as an India versus Pakistan game?” Basit Ali said on the Game Plan YouTube show.
Naqvi’s comments earned praise from Basit, who also reckoned that the ICC is now under the pump.
“With what Mohsin Naqvi said in the press conference, duniya hila di unhon ne (he has shaken the world). He said we will ask the government about our participation. The wording he used has now made things very difficult for the ICC. Pakistan should not boycott because we don’t have to play in India. But what if our government tells us that we need to stand in solidarity with Bangladesh? Then what will happen?” he added.
A meeting was held between the PCB chairman and the players yesterday after the squad was announced for the World Cup. After meeting with the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Naqvi will take the final call.
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