(Image source from: AFP)
The T20 World Cup 2026 has turned into a conflict zone between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the International Cricket Council (ICC). The ICC is now gearing up for a meeting that might significantly affect the future of cricket worldwide. Time is running out: there are only 48 hours left before the governing body is expected to make a decision that could leave the PCB completely alone. Sources informed NDTV that the ICC, led by Jay Shah, is considering imposing harsh penalties on Pakistan after it declared its intention to boycott the T20 World Cup match against India on 15 February. This decision was made in support of Bangladesh, which was replaced by Scotland in the tournament.
The tension had been building since Bangladesh was eliminated, reaching a peak on Sunday. In a surprising turn of events, the Pakistani government approved its team's travel to Sri Lanka but announced "selective participation. " An official statement from the Pakistani government's account on X (formerly Twitter) made it clear that the team was allowed to participate in the T20 World Cup, but it cannot play against India on 15 February. The PCB, under the leadership of Mohsin Naqvi, framed this move as showing support for Bangladesh, whose plea to switch matches away from India was turned down by the ICC. For Pakistan, this was a matter of principle; for others, it seemed like a drastic blow to the tournament’s financial and competitive integrity. In the past, India has faced significant pressure to avoid matches against Pakistan because of political issues. Nevertheless, the Indian team played its 2025 Asia Cup game in Pakistan, with the BCCI focusing on the importance of associate nations and the global cricket scene. However, when it came time for Pakistan to return the favor, the country opted for political statements rather than sportsmanship.
On Sunday, the ICC urged the PCB to reconsider its position or risk severe penalties. If the PCB does not compromise within the next 48 hours, the possible penalties could include:
Full Suspension: Like the situation in South Africa during the 1970s, prohibiting Pakistan from all international events.
The "NOC" Freeze: Refusing to issue No Objection Certificates, which would prevent foreign stars from participating in the PSL, severely hindering Pakistan's main domestic league.
Financial Withholding: Freezing Pakistan's share of ICC funds, which is about $34.5 million each year.
Discussions are ongoing behind the scenes to address the crisis, especially since the T20 World Cup is set to start in less than a week. Diplomatic efforts are underway, with various parties trying to find a last-minute solution. The aim is to allow Pakistan to play on 15 February. However, a similar warning was issued to Bangladesh, which did not change its stance, resulting in Scotland taking its place in the tournament.
