The cricket world has been left baffled by the Pakistani government’s latest announcement that the national team will play in the T20 World Cup but boycott the match against India on February 15 in Colombo.
The decision seems more political than a response to an actual grievance. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi criticised the governing body for its “double standards” after Bangladesh was ousted from the tournament following a request to move its matches from India to Sri Lanka.
The ICC has reacted to Pakistan’s decision of “selective participation” and warned of the long-term implications for the PCB and international cricket.
The India-Pakistan match has been a major source of revenue for the ICC; Pakistan’s absence could cost broadcasters like Jio Star ₹200-₹300 crore in advertising revenue only.
Moreover, Pakistan would automatically forfeit two points for the match, harming their Net Run Rate (NRR). According to some sources, ICC might even expel Pakistan from current and future tournaments.
Many believe that the damage Pakistan faces from this decision will be irreversible, including removal from the Asia Cup and other bilateral series. Now, the ICC is swinging on a pendulum, forced to choose between tournament integrity and granting diplomatic leniency to Pakistan.
