“Thank You Pakistan”: Bangladesh Responds to PM Shehbaz Sharif’s Bold T20 World Cup Statement

Dhaka: Bangladesh has responded positively to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s strong statement regarding the T20 World Cup, expressing gratitude for Pakistan’s solidarity.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had announced that Pakistan’s decision not to play the match against India in the T20 World Cup was deliberate and aimed at showing support and unity with Bangladesh. Reacting to this, Bangladesh Sports Advisor Dr. Asif Nazrul sent a message saying “Thank You Pakistan,” also referencing Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s remarks.

Earlier, during a cabinet meeting on Wednesday, PM Shehbaz Sharif had said, “We will not play the match against India because politics should not interfere on the sports field. This decision has been made after careful consideration. We must fully stand with Bangladesh. I believe this is a very appropriate decision.”

Previously, on February 1, the Pakistani government had announced via social media that the national cricket team would participate in the T20 World Cup, but the match against India scheduled for February 15 would not be played.

According to ICC sources, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has not formally notified the Council regarding this decision. Meanwhile, Indian media reports claim that ICC has assigned Vice-Chairman Imran Khawaja to conduct back-channel talks with Pakistan to resolve the issue.