The International Cricket Council (ICC) has called an emergency virtual board meeting following the Pakistani government’s decision to boycott its scheduled match against India in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
The high-profile Group A clash between the arch-rivals is set for February 15, 2026, in Sri Lanka.
The Government of Pakistan confirmed the boycott through its official social media channels on Sunday, after a meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.
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While Pakistan will participate in the tournament, the government has explicitly barred the team from taking the field against India.
The move is widely seen as Pakistan asserting its principles and standing firm on national interests, particularly after PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi accused the ICC of applying “double standards” and favoring the Indian cricket board.
The ICC has said it is awaiting formal communication from the PCB regarding this decision.
In its preliminary response, the global governing body expressed concern, stating that selective participation contradicts the spirit of a global sporting event and undermines the integrity of the competition.
READ: Pakistan to play ICC T20 World Cup 2026 but skip match against India
While recognizing the authority of national governments, the ICC urged the PCB to reconsider, warning that the decision could affect the global game and disappoint cricket fans worldwide.
The council encouraged Pakistan to explore a solution that protects the interests of all stakeholders.
The emergency board meeting is expected to focus on safeguarding the tournament’s integrity and reviewing Pakistan’s breach of playing agreements, which require all scheduled matches to be completed.
Reports indicate that the ICC may consider sanctions against Pakistan, including financial penalties, restrictions on participation in future ICC events, and limits on bilateral series with other top cricketing nations.
The PCB could also be asked to compensate broadcasters and commercial partners for losses caused by the forfeited match.
This situation follows ongoing tensions between the PCB and ICC, including Pakistan’s dissatisfaction over Bangladesh being replaced by Scotland in the tournament schedule.
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Pakistan has consistently voiced concerns over perceived inequities and is standing firm on prioritizing national security and principles over commercial considerations.
