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Controversy over Pakistan’s participation in T20 World Cup 2026

Islamabad. The Pakistan government has decided on Sunday night, February 1, that its cricket team will participate in the T20 World Cup 2026, but will not play the match against India on February 15. After this decision, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has also reacted and warned the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) that it should reconsider its decision.

Strict possible action of ICC

According to sources, ICC may take strict action against Pakistan due to boycott of T20 World Cup match against India. Possible action could include the option of banning the Pakistan team from upcoming editions. Additionally, other punitive measures may include refusal of major cricket playing countries to play bilateral series with Pakistan, heavy financial penalties, and a ban on the participation of foreign players in the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

Beyoncé of Management

The PCB has supported Bangladesh’s decision to pull out of the T20 World Cup and decided not to play its match against India in Colombo on February 15. Whereas the contract between Pakistan and ICC to play the match at a neutral venue is considered legally binding.

Potential punishment and revenue loss

“Since the official announcement by Pakistan has been made, some strict action is expected from the ICC. It will be decided in the virtual meeting of the ICC Board whether Pakistan should be allowed to play in the tournament or not,” said an ICC board source, requesting anonymity. If permission is granted, the PCB may face some harsh penalties.

impact on bilateral series

Sources say Pakistan is in breach of a binding contract, which could lead to ICC member boards refusing to travel to Pakistan for bilateral series. As a result, there is also a possibility of Pakistan not getting WTC points.

Impact on PSL

The biggest loss to Pakistan could be due to the ban on the Pakistan Super League which generates revenue for it. “Participation of recent foreign international players may be banned and existing players in the domestic league may also face restrictions,” the source added. Additionally, the PCB will also have to compensate the ICC’s host broadcaster for revenue loss, which could run into millions of dollars.

A possible decision by the ICC

If the ICC bans Pakistan from the tournament, Uganda will likely take their place. Generally the advertising rates for India-Pakistan T20 match range between Rs 25 lakh to Rs 40 lakh per 10 seconds. The resulting advertising revenue loss could exceed Rs 200 crore.

Possible consequences of boycotting Pakistan

• Complete ban from the tournament.
• Ban on annual revenue from ICC.
• Demand to compensate Jio-Star for revenue loss from PCB.
• Ban on bilateral series, impact on WTC points and ICC rankings.
• Ban on participation of all foreign players (except free agents) in PSL.