The International Cricket Council (ICC) has declined three crucial demands made by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in ongoing discussions. This follows Pakistan’s refusal to play against India in the T20 World Cup 2026 fixture on February 15 in Colombo. The PCB had urged the ICC to reconsider its decision to boycott the match against India.
Pakistan’s requests included a bilateral series with India, which the ICC dismissed, clarifying that it falls outside its jurisdiction, even within the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. Additionally, the PCB suggested a tri-series involving India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, but the ICC rejected this proposal outright.
During the discussions, Pakistan’s board supported the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), advocating for India to tour Bangladesh later this year for a series that was postponed last year. However, the ICC reiterated its stance of non-interference in matters concerning bilateral series decisions.
Another demand from the PCB was for Bangladesh to receive compensatory rights for a shifted ICC event. The possibility of Bangladesh hosting the next Under-19 World Cup is being considered. Pakistan also emphasized that Bangladesh should continue receiving its share of ICC revenue, a matter the ICC has already decided not to penalize Bangladesh for independently.
The PCB has been given a 24-hour deadline by the ICC to make a final decision. The ultimate choice now rests with Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, whom the PCB chairman is scheduled to meet soon for a final verdict. Meanwhile, both Pakistan and India have started their campaigns in the tournament with victories.
