ICC warns Pakistan over boycotting IND vs PAK T20 World Cup 2026 clash
(Courtesy : Getty Images)
The ICC has asked the PCB to reconsider their stance on not playing against India in the T20 World Cup 2026.
The Pakistan government announced on February 1, 2026, that their national cricket team would participate in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 but would boycott the high-profile Group A match against India (IND vs PAK) scheduled for February 15 in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
This selective participation follows tensions after the ICC replaced Bangladesh with Scotland in the tournament due to Bangladesh’s refusal to play matches in India over security concerns, a decision Pakistan criticized as biased.
The India-Pakistan clash, traditionally the most-watched and revenue-generating game in ICC events, now faces absence for the first time in group stages since 2010, with Pakistan set to forfeit two points and suffer a net run rate penalty (per ICC Playing Conditions Clause 16.10.7), while India‘s record remains unaffected.
What is the ICC’s response to the PCB’s boycott threat?
In response, the International Cricket Council (ICC) released an official statement on the same day, expressing concern over the move:
“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.”
The ICC’s measured yet firm response called for dialogue to prevent further escalation amid government interference. Pakistan are scheduled to play their remaining Group A matches against the Netherlands on February 7, the USA on February 10, and Namibia on February 18.
No further details on potential sanctions or knockout scenarios have emerged, but the development highlights ongoing geopolitical strains in cricket.
Has the ICC accepted Pakistan’s stance of not playing against India?
No. The ICC stated that selective participation is incompatible with the principles of a global tournament.
Can the ICC suspend Pakistan from all international cricket?
If Pakistan fail to comply, then the ICC might be compelled to resort to drastic measures.
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Aniruddh Seshadri Iyer is a passionate sports journalist at Khel Now, specializing in tennis and Olympic sports. An engineer by training, he found his storytelling passion through iconic Grand Slam and Olympic moments. Known for sharp analysis and insightful coverage, he draws inspiration from Novak Djokovic’s resilience. Outside journalism, he enjoys reading, traveling, and playing the guitar.