Pakistan misguided Bangladesh in T20 World Cup withdrawal: Madan Lal

Former Indian cricketer and 1983 World Cup winner Madan Lal lauded the ICC’s firm stance but criticized Bangladesh for being influenced by Pakistan in its decision to withdraw from the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Speaking to ANI, he said: “The ICC made the right call. Pakistan led Bangladesh in the wrong direction, creating a huge opportunity for Scotland. Bangladesh made a big mistake.”

Madan Lal also alleged that Pakistan influenced BCB over removing Mustafizur Rahman from the IPL, prompting Bangladesh to request matches be shifted to Sri Lanka. “I think this is foolish. India loses nothing; Bangladesh loses everything. Commercially, skipping such a major tournament is a huge loss,” he added.

Bangladesh had cited security concerns and proposed venue swaps with Ireland, but the ICC board rejected the requests. Pakistan was the only member to support Bangladesh. Subsequent efforts by BCB at the Dispute Resolution Committee also failed.

Bangladesh has withdrawn from next month’s T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka after the ICC rejected its proposals, paving the way for Scotland to replace them. The decision comes after the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) refused to comply with the ICC’s ultimatum.