Cancellation of India-Pakistan T20 Clash Could Cost Stakeholders Over ₹22,000 Crore

The Pakistan government announced on Sunday that its men’s team will boycott the T20 World Cup 2026 group match against India, signaling that they do not wish to play against India in the tournament.

ICC May Impose Sanctions
Following Pakistan’s decision, speculation is mounting that the International Cricket Council (ICC) could impose sanctions on the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). The ICC may take strict action to address the potential revenue loss resulting from the absence of this marquee clash.

The India-Pakistan T20 encounter is estimated to generate approximately $25 million (over ₹2,200 crore) in revenue. Its cancellation could inflict significant financial losses on all stakeholders involved in the tournament.

Broadcasters Face Major Losses
Due to the historically intense rivalry, India and Pakistan often meet only in multi-nation tournaments. The ICC usually ensures that both teams are in the same group to maximize global viewership. If Pakistan stands by its decision, it risks losing millions in revenue.

The cancellation would also impact the ICC’s revenue pool and India’s official broadcaster JioHotstar, which is renegotiating its $3 billion contract with the global cricket body. The broadcaster could potentially lose ₹200–250 crore in advertising revenue from this high-profile match.

PCB’s Earnings Are Far Lower
While India would receive full points in a walkover, the ICC retains the right to financially penalize the PCB. Former ICC and PCB communications head Sami-ul-Hasan Berni highlighted the match’s economic significance, stating, “The cost of one match is $25 million, which includes all stakeholders, not just broadcasters. The PCB’s annual revenue is only $3.55 million, so the gap is enormous.”

Following Pakistan’s announcement, the ICC also issued a statement emphasizing the spirit of the game. Rajeev Shukla, Vice President of BCCI, said, “We agree with the ICC. BCCI will not make any statement until discussions with the ICC are concluded.”

Only Men’s Team Affected
The boycott applies only to the men’s team. On the same day as the scheduled India-Pakistan men’s match, both countries’ women’s A teams are set to face each other. Pakistan has not issued any instructions regarding the women’s team, which will participate in the Women’s Rising Stars Asia Cup in Bangkok. The PCB announced its women’s A squad on Sunday, coinciding with the boycott announcement.