ICC T20 World Cup 2026: ICC responds to Pakistan's decision to not play against India
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has warned the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) over its decision to boycott matches against India in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
The ICC said it "expects the PCB to find a mutually agreeable solution that protects the interests of all parties involved."
The ICC also stated that Pakistan's decision could have "far-reaching consequences."
The ICC T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to begin in India and Sri Lanka on February 7 and run until March 8. According to the schedule, a match between India and Pakistan is set for February 15.
Hours after the Pakistani government issued its statement, the ICC released a detailed statement saying it had not yet received official notification from the PCB and that Pakistan's decision could impact the global cricket structure.
The statement said, "The ICC has taken note of the statement issued by the Government of Pakistan regarding its decision to instruct its national team to selectively participate in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026."
It further stated, "The ICC has not yet received official communication from the PCB. This approach of selective participation is inconsistent with the fundamental principles of a global sporting event, where all qualifying teams are expected to play on an equal basis according to the established schedule."
"ICC tournaments are based on the integrity, competitiveness, consistency, and fairness of the sport. Selective participation undermines the spirit and credibility of these competitions."
"The ICC respects the role of governments in matters related to national policies, but this decision is not in the best interests of global cricket or fans worldwide, including millions of Pakistani fans."
The statement warned, "The ICC expects the PCB to consider the serious and long-term implications of this decision, as it could impact the global cricket structure of which the PCB is a member and beneficiary."
The statement concluded by expressing hope for a suitable solution, saying, "The ICC's priority is the successful staging of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup. This is also the responsibility of all member boards, including the PCB. The ICC hopes that the PCB will find a mutually agreeable solution while protecting the interests of all stakeholders."
On Sunday, the Pakistani government issued a statement on X (formerly Twitter) stating that the Pakistan cricket team would not be playing against India on February 15.
However, the Pakistani government did not provide any reason for this decision.