Pakistan waiting on government clearance for World T20

Pakistan's participation at the World Twenty20 in India is subject to government approval, says chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Shaharyar Khan.

The biennial tournament is set to begin on March 8, but concerns over the security of Pakistan's players have cast doubt over their participation.

Shaharyar concedes that time is running out, but says the PCB is unable to rush the government into making a decision.

"The decision about Pakistan playing in the ICC will be made by the government," he said.

"We cannot give a deadline to the government. We have already told the government that it is their decision.

"Now we have to remind them that the time is closing in, the decision has to be made soon so that everybody is informed."

Shaharyar also revealed that the idea of Pakistan playing their tournament fixtures at neutral venues was discussed at a recent International Cricket Council (ICC) meeting.

"Yes some member did bring up the point that if our team didn't get clearance to go to India maybe our matches be held at a neutral venue like Dubai, Sharjah or Colombo," he added.

"I made it clear we have to see what our government says because the Indian Board has not played a bilateral series against us in December because their government didn't give them clearance."