T20 World Cup 2026: How Pakistan Could End Up ‘Begging’ by Boycotting – Explained in 5 Points

Following the exclusion of Bangladesh from the T20 World Cup 2026, all eyes are on Pakistan. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has threatened to boycott the tournament in protest. While the PCB has announced its squad, Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has clarified that the team will only travel to India if the government approves. Naqvi met Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif on Monday evening, and a final decision is expected by Friday or Monday.

However, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has already warned Pakistan of consequences if it boycotts. Analysts say such a move could be a “suicide mission” for the financially-strapped PCB, potentially leaving it entirely dependent on external support. Here’s why a boycott could backfire, explained in five points:

1. ICC Could Impose Bans
If Pakistan boycotts the T20 World Cup under government instructions, ICC may classify it as “political interference.” Possible penalties include:

• Event Hosting Ban: Pakistan is slated to host the 2028 Women’s T20 World Cup, which ICC could revoke. Future ICC events may also exclude Pakistan as a host.
• Global Cricket Ban: ICC could bar Pakistan from participating in tournaments or bilateral series, similar to bans imposed on South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Sri Lanka in the past.

2. Breach of Participation Agreement
All full-member nations sign a Tournament Participation Agreement (TPA) before ICC events. A boycott would violate this agreement, potentially triggering legal action from ICC.

3. Loss of Billions in Revenue
ICC distributes revenue shares to member nations annually. Pakistan’s share—approximately 6% of the total pool—is estimated at ₹316 crore this year. Additionally, ICC was expected to pay $5 million (₹46 crore) for tournament participation and preparation, and prize money plus match-related earnings of $2 million (₹18 crore). Boycotting would mean forfeiting all these funds, a huge blow to the PCB’s already stretched finances.

4. PSL Player NOCs Could Be Blocked
ICC has warned that if Pakistan boycotts, foreign players may be denied No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to participate in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Boards from Australia, West Indies, New Zealand, South Africa, and England could enforce this. Since PSL’s revenue relies heavily on foreign players, such a restriction could collapse the league, leaving PCB financially crippled.

5. Pakistan Could Become Isolated
A boycott would isolate Pakistan in the global cricket community. No country would play bilateral series or tour Pakistan without ICC approval. Revenue streams would dry up, and Pakistan’s cricket infrastructure could suffer. Additionally, ICC non-approval could bar Pakistan from fielding teams in tournaments like the Asia Cup or even cricket events in the Olympics.

In short, a boycott could leave Pakistan not only excluded from the T20 World Cup 2026 but also facing long-term financial and sporting isolation.