Former Indian star and World Cup-winning cricketer Suresh Raina has reacted sharply to Pakistan's threats of boycotting the 2026 T20 World Cup. Raina directly blamed the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) for the entire crisis and issued a clear warning to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), stating that their decision to stay away from the tournament could prove very costly.
The Bangladesh Controversy and ICC's Decision
The controversy erupted when the BCCI instructed the Kolkata Knight Riders to release Bangladeshi player Mustafizur Rahman. Following this, Bangladesh refused to travel to India, citing security concerns. The ICC rejected their demands and ultimately replaced Bangladesh with Scotland in the tournament. Raina completely dismissed the security claims, stating that all necessary arrangements were in place in India. Speaking to NDTV, Raina said, "Security was complete in India, everything was in place. What happened with Bangladesh, it's their fault."
"They would have gained a lot by coming to India."
Raina believes that Bangladesh also suffered a significant loss from a cricketing perspective. He said, "If Bangladesh had come to India, the picture would have been different. Their team is very strong, especially the spinners who know the conditions here well. They will lose a lot." Sharing his experience, Raina mentioned the 2011 ODI World Cup and the 2016 T20 World Cup, describing the atmosphere in India as a festival. Raina said, "Playing a World Cup in India is nothing less than a festival. Every team should be a part of it."
A Direct Warning to Mohsin Naqvi
Amidst speculations of a solidarity boycott by Pakistan or their refusal to play matches against India, Raina sent a clear message to PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi. He said, "The ICC Chairman has already made it clear – strict action will be taken against teams that do not come to India." Raina also added that not playing in India would mean suffering huge commercial and cultural losses.
India is the defending champion, so why the distance? Raina said that when India is the defending champion and the top-ranked team in the world, boycotting the tournament would be an injustice to both the fans and the sport of cricket. He said, "Staying away from a tournament where the best cricket is played is not in anyone's best interest."
ICC's tough stance, possibility of severe sanctions
Raina's comments align with the ICC's firm stance. According to reports, the ICC could impose unprecedented sanctions on the boycotting teams, including even suspension of membership. The PCB has to make a final decision either on Friday or February 2nd, and Raina's message is clear: the cost of staying away will be very high.
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