The Pakistan government has declared that its cricket team will not play against India in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, sending shockwaves across the cricketing world. Speculation has risen that the International Cricket Council (ICC) could impose sanctions on the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for this decision. However, Pakistani media reports suggest that the PCB will not reverse its decision, having explored legal avenues to avoid an ICC ban.
No Signs of Reversal
According to Telecom Asia Sports, PCB sources indicate there is no intention to change the boycott decision. The directive came directly from the Pakistan government, and the PCB stated it cannot act until the government changes its stance. Pakistan’s T20 captain Salman Ali Aga had previously echoed this, adding that the team would focus on winning their other group matches to qualify for the Super 8 stage.
PCB Will Not Provide Written Notification to ICC
The report also claims that the PCB will not send any official written communication to the ICC regarding the boycott. A PCB source said, “This is a government decision and has been made public. There is no need to send a written notice to the ICC. Historically, India never officially informed the ICC when it refused to tour Pakistan, nor was it required. Therefore, we see no need to provide written confirmation.”
Legal Advice Sought Before Announcement
The potential cancellation of the India-Pakistan match could result in an estimated $250 million revenue loss for the ICC and official broadcasters. The report claims that the Pakistan government sought legal advice before announcing the boycott. On Sunday, prior to the announcement, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif reportedly met with former PCB chief Najam Sethi in Lahore, who advised a strong stance against India based on past agreements dating back to 2016.
Legal Representation Accompanies Team to Colombo
Pakistan’s squad arrived in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on Monday evening to participate in the T20 World Cup. PCB sources revealed that a legal representative will accompany team officials if any ICC meeting takes place regarding the boycott. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi approved this move to ensure the team can respond to the ICC on legal grounds.
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