T20 World Cup 2026: ICC releases official statement after Pakistan boycott India match
The Pakistan Cricket Board confirmed they won't take part in their clash against India.
2 Min Read
The ICC notes the statement that the government of Pakistan has made regarding the decision to instruct its national team to selectively participate in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026.
While the ICC awaits official communication from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), this position of selective participation is difficult to reconcile with the fundamental premise of a global sporting event where all qualified teams are expected to compete on equal terms per the event schedule.
ICC tournaments are built on sporting integrity, competitiveness, consistency and fairness, and selective participation undermines the spirit and sanctity of the competitions.
While the ICC respects the roles of governments in matters of national policy, this decision is not in the interest of the global game or the welfare of fans worldwide, including millions in Pakistan.
The ICC hopes that the PCB will consider the significant and long-term implications for cricket in its own country, as this is likely to impact the global cricket ecosystem, which it is itself a member and beneficiary of.
The ICC's priority remains the successful delivery of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, which should also be the responsibility of all its members, including the PCB. It expects the PCB to explore a mutually acceptable resolution, which protects the interests of all stakeholders.
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Pakistan may reverse their boycott: Gavaskar
Meanwhile, legendary Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar believes that the PCB might see itself in jeopardy if the boycott on Pakistan's match against India is not lifted. Gavaskar has opined that playing against India will benefit Pakistan more than any other thing. With strict repercussions that may follow, the Men in Green may eventually be forced to take the field on February 15 at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo.
"In the next two to four days, when the reactions from around the world will come, when the reactions from their own cricketers [and ex-cricketers] will come, then Pakistan may reverse their decision [to boycott T20 World Cup match versus India]," Gavaskar told Aajtak during an interaction.
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