The International Cricket Council (ICC) has issued a statement following intensive discussions with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) regarding the ongoing controversy over Pakistan’s potential boycott of its T20 World Cup 2026 match against India, scheduled for February 15 in Colombo. The talks aim to resolve the diplomatic and sporting tensions that have emerged amid political and administrative pressures.
According to the ICC, a delegation led by Deputy Chairman Imran Khwaja held back-channel consultations with the PCB, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the tournament schedule and ensuring fair play. The discussions focused on understanding the concerns of both Pakistan and Bangladesh while reinforcing the ICC’s commitment to keeping the T20 World Cup intact and uninterrupted.
The PCB has reportedly raised three conditions for participating in the India match. These include the restoration of cricketing ties with India, a larger share of ICC revenue, and adherence to the handshake policy to uphold sportsmanship on the field. Meanwhile, the BCB has also weighed in, proposing a tri-series involving India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh to foster collaboration and maintain cricketing relations in the region.
The ICC statement highlighted the governing body’s “neutral and facilitative role” in resolving disputes, stressing that all member boards should honor tournament commitments while safeguarding the interests of players and the integrity of the game. The ICC also noted that it is working closely with the respective cricket boards to find a solution acceptable to all parties, including governments, to prevent disruptions to the World Cup schedule.
The statement comes ahead of PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi’s meeting with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, where he is expected to urge the government to reconsider instructions to avoid the India fixture. The ICC reaffirmed that it continues to monitor the situation and is committed to supporting dialogue among boards to ensure that the tournament proceeds smoothly, reflecting the spirit of international cricket and cooperation among member nations.
