“Boycotting the game is just mischief” - BCCI official opens up on T20 World Cup 2026 controversy

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is likely to enforce the ‘Force Majeure’ clause to avoid heavy sanctions and fines from the International Cricket Council (ICC) if their national team boycotts their group stage fixture against India in the forthcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2026.

According to a report published on The Indian Express, the PCB may look to justify its boycott decision by citing the social media post by the Pakistan government regarding the 'boycott' and arguing that they were instructed to take the decision.

“This is their last resort since they don't have any other reason to not play India,” an official said.

On the other hand, the BCCI believes that there is not much difference between the Pakistan Cricket Board and the Pakistan government, adding that the Pakistan Prime Minister is the patron-in-chief of PCB. Moreover, PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi is a minister.

“When Pakistan had no problem playing India in the Under-19 World Cup on the same day their government put out the post to boycott the T20 World Cup game, this wouldn't cut ice. Besides, when it comes to the Pakistan Cricket Board and the Pakistan government, there is not much difference. The Pakistan prime minister is the patron-in-chief of PCB and the board's chief is a minister,” a BCCI source told The Indian Express.

“The Pakistan and Bangladesh boards are mixing politics with cricket. Despite the Indian government's repeated statements ensuring security to their team, the Bangladesh team didn't travel to India. Now, Pakistan too is being unreasonable. There has been an understanding that India and Pakistan will play at a neutral venue in ICC events. Boycotting the game is just mischief,” the official added.

On Wednesday, February 4, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif confirmed the country's decision to boycott its T20 World Cup match against India.

"We have taken a clear stand regarding the T20 World Cup that we will not play the match against India," the Pakistan PM said while addressing the federal cabinet in Islamabad.

Stay updated with the latest cricket news, match insights, and exclusive updates at Sky365 and download the Sky365 App to start betting today!