ICC seeks resolution after Pakistan’s decision to boycott T20 WC match against India

The International Cricket Council (ICC) issued a statement on Sunday in response to Pakistan’s decision to boycott their T20 World Cup match against India, saying it expects the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to find a “mutually acceptable resolution” to the situation.

Earlier on Sunday, the government of Pakistan allowed its cricket team to participate in the Men’s ICC T20 World Cup 2026 but barred it from taking part in the scheduled match against India on February 15.

“The government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan grants approval to the Pakistan cricket team to participate in the ICC World T20 2026, however, the Pakistan cricket team shall not take the field in the match scheduled on 15th February 2026 against India,” a post from the Pakistan government’s X account said.

The ICC, while noting the government’s position, expressed concern over the implications of selective participation in a global tournament.

“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,” the ICC statement read.

“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.”