The India vs Pakistan game in ICC events has been one of the most-awaited and watched matches in any ICC tournament. However, there has been uncertainty looming over the India vs Pakistan game, as after the much-awaited green light given to Pakistan to feature in the T20 World Cup 2026, on Sunday. But they did not permit their team to play against India in the marquee event.
After the social media post from the Pakistan government, the controversy has surrounded world cricket. This decision came after Bangladesh was removed from the T20 World Cup as they did not agree on playing in India due to security reasons, and even after multiple reassurances from the global body, they did not change their stance and were replaced by Scotland. Pakistan, which was in support of the Bangla Tigers, have find themselves in deep water.
Pakistan is set to fall into its own grave
Mohsin Naqvi and the board are desperate to find international support in their decision to boycott the high-stakes game of India vs Pakistan. As per reports in NDTV, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been looking to get support from the other member boards of the International Cricket Council (ICC). However, PCB has not provided any official notice on the ongoing chaos to the global cricketing body.
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This has led to serious tensions for the PCB as they are being isolated and moving away from their mode of survival, which is cricket. As per reports, there has not been much positive movement for Pakistan, as the other board members’ feedback has not been in favour of them. For the moment, PCB’s legal standing is in dispute. The boycott, which was made by the PCB as a show of solidarity with Bangladesh after the latter was barred from the competition.
Double Standards from Pakistan
The board members have found out that various issues expose Pakistan’s intent behind the move. The U-19 Pakistan team played in a virtual knockout game against India’s U-19 side without any protest or boycott. Even in women’s cricket, the Pakistan Women’s A side is set to play India A on 15th February, with no plans to withdraw from the Rising Stars Asia Cup 2026 match in Bangkok.
With no support from the other boards, the global cricketing body has already warned of “long-term sanctions”; it will be digging its own grave as Pakistan’s own cricket ecosystem will have a huge impact if it gets removed from the T20 World Cup or gets any other punishments. Other boards have reportedly reminded the PCB of “selective participation.”
Time running out for PCB
PCB has now found itself under shallow water with the possibility of larger financial fines estimated at more than $38 million, there will be loss of important World Test Championship points, and suspension.
Pakistan still has time to reverse its decision, and if they keep their stance with only a few days left, it will have to bear a complete financial downfall. ICC is set to have an emergency meeting in the next few hours to discuss the future of Pakistan in case they do not change their stance.
