The International Cricket Council has raised concern over Pakistan’s decision to take part in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 while skipping its match against India.
In a statement, the ICC said it has noted the announcement made by the government of Pakistan. The global body added that it is still waiting for formal communication from the Pakistan Cricket Board.
The ICC said selective participation does not fit with the nature of a global event. It said all qualified teams are expected to compete under the same schedule and conditions.
“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.”
The ICC stressed the core values of its tournaments.
“ICC tournaments are built on sporting integrity, competitiveness, consistency and fairness, and selective participation undermines the spirit and sanctity of the competitions.”
The council said it respects the role of governments in national matters. However, it added that the decision does not serve the game or its supporters.
“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 also warned about the long term impact on cricket 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 global body said its focus remains on delivering the tournament smoothly.
“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.”
Pakistan earlier confirmed it would play in the tournament but would boycott its group match against India. The move came after Bangladesh was removed from the World Cup.
Bangladesh had refused to travel to India due to security concerns and asked for its matches to be moved elsewhere. Talks with the ICC failed, and the issue was later decided by a board vote, where Bangladesh lost by a large margin.
Pakistan supported Bangladesh in the vote but later chose a different path. Its decision to skip only the India match has now drawn a firm response from the ICC and renewed debate across the cricket world.
