Pakistan Boycotts India Game, But Will Play T20 World Cup 2026; ICC Breaks Silence

The ICC takes note of the declaration made by the Pakistani government on the choice to direct its national side to compete in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 on a selective basis. This selective participation stance is hard to reconcile with the basic idea of a worldwide athletic event, where all eligible teams are expected to compete on equal terms according to the tournament schedule, even though the ICC is awaiting formal word from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Following a meeting between PM Shehbaz Sharif and PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi, the Pakistani government acknowledged the decision on Sunday night. The PCB president intensified his criticism of the International Cricket Council (ICC) after it substituted Scotland for Bangladesh in the 20-team competition, claiming that Bangladesh had been treated unfairly.

Sharif told Naqvi at their meeting earlier this week that the final decision regarding Pakistan's involvement would be made on either Friday, January 30, or Monday, February 2. But the shocking call to boycott the big match against the bitter rivals was made a day before the verdict was delivered.

T20 World Cup 2026 Update:

🚨 A STRONG STATEMENT BY ICC FOR PCB ON BOYCOTTING INDIA vs PAKISTAN MATCH 🚨 pic.twitter.com/Jxps86HetF

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) February 1, 2026

Selective participation compromises the spirit and sanctity of ICC tournaments, which are based on sporting integrity, competitiveness, consistency, and justice. This decision is not in the best interests of the global game or the welfare of fans globally, including millions in Pakistan, even though the ICC acknowledges the roles of governments in matters of national policy.

Since the PCB is expected to have an impact on the global cricket ecosystem, of which it is a member and beneficiary, the ICC expects that the PCB will take into account the substantial and long-term ramifications for cricket in its own nation. The smooth completion of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup continues to be the organisation's top objective, and all of its members, including the PCB, should share this obligation. It anticipates that the PCB will look into a compromise that safeguards the interests of all parties involved.

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