Top News

BCCI calls Pakistan’s potential ‘Force Majeure’ claim weak over T20 World Cup boycott of India, saying PCB and government are closely linked.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly considering invoking the ‘Force Majeure’ clause to defend its decision to boycott the high-profile T20 World Cup 2026 match against India on February 15 in Colombo, according to a report by The Indian Express.

The move comes amid warnings from the International Cricket Council (ICC) of severe financial and sporting sanctions if Pakistan fails to fulfill the fixture.

Add News as a Preferred Source

What is the ‘Force Majeure’ clause?

The ‘Force Majeure’ clause in ICC contracts covers unforeseeable circumstances that prevent a party from fulfilling obligations. Pakistan may argue that the official government directive – including a social media post instructing the boycott – constitutes an extraordinary situation beyond the PCB’s control.

“This is their last resort since they don’t have any other reason to not play India.“

If the boycott proceeds, India will automatically be awarded two points, and the PCB could face significant financial penalties.

BCCI dismisses Pakistan’s argument as weak

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has strongly rejected the potential justification, calling it unconvincing.

“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 said.

The BCCI official further accused both Pakistan and Bangladesh boards of 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.”

PM Shehbaz Sharif reiterates boycott decision

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, addressing the federal cabinet in Islamabad, reaffirmed the government’s stance on Wednesday.

“We have taken a clear stand regarding the T20 World Cup that we will not play the match against India,” Sharif stated.

The decision is being framed as a show of solidarity with Bangladesh, whose team refused to travel to India-hosted matches citing security concerns.

ICC’s firm warning

The ICC has already cautioned the PCB about the “significant and long-term implications” for Pakistan cricket, emphasizing that the boycott could affect the global cricket ecosystem.

Pakistan’s team has reached Colombo and will play its other group-stage matches, starting against the Netherlands. The PCB has made it clear that it will follow government instructions even if an India clash occurs in the knockout stages.

The development has intensified the geopolitical tension surrounding India-Pakistan cricket fixtures, with the ICC now facing pressure to enforce its rules while navigating complex political realities.

For all latest updates of T20 World Cup 2026 you can visit: