ICC, PCB in talks after Pakistan boycotts India T20 clash

Pakistan’s boycott of its T20 World Cup group match against India has triggered back-channel talks with the ICC amid fears of financial losses exceeding USD 250 million. The ICC has urged the PCB to reconsider, warning of long-term consequences for global cricket

New Delhi: Pakistan’s decision to boycott its T20 World Cup group match against India has reportedly prompted “back-channel talks” between the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) amid concerns over potential financial fallout.

On Sunday, the Pakistan government announced that its national cricket team would not play the group-stage match against India at Colombo’s R Premadasa Stadium on February 15. The decision could reportedly cost world cricket more than USD 250 million.

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According to The Dawn, a few other cricket boards have extended support to the ICC in its attempt to reach an understanding with the PCB.

It is currently unclear whether Pakistan will be sanctioned for the move, with the ICC urging the PCB to consider the significant and long-term implications if the boycott goes ahead.

In response to Pakistan’s announcement, the ICC issued a strong statement on Sunday, urging the PCB to seek a mutually acceptable resolution and warning that selective participation undermines the principles of global competition.

“While the ICC awaits official communication from the Pakistan Cricket Board, this position of selective participation is difficult to reconcile with the fundamental premise of a global sporting event where all qualified teams are expected to compete on equal terms per the event schedule,” the ICC said.

“The ICC hopes that the PCB will consider the significant and long-term implications for cricket in its own country, as this is likely to impact the global cricket ecosystem, of which it is itself a member and beneficiary,” it added.

Pakistan is in Group A alongside India, Namibia, the Netherlands and the United States of America. All of Pakistan’s matches are scheduled for Sri Lanka, which is co-hosting the tournament with India.