ICC rejects Pakistan’s selective participation proposal for T20 World Cup

The ICC rejected Pakistan’s proposal for selective participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, saying it undermines sporting integrity. Awaiting PCB’s official communication, the ICC urged a resolution that protects the interests of global cricket and fans

Hyderabad: The ICC took note of the statement made by the government of Pakistan regarding its decision to instruct the national team to selectively participate in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.

While the ICC awaits official communication from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), 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 as per the schedule.

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ICC tournaments are built on sporting integrity, competitiveness, consistency and fairness, and selective participation undermines the spirit and sanctity of the competitions.

While the ICC respects the role of governments in matters of national policy, it said this decision is not in the interest of the global game or the welfare of fans worldwide, including millions in Pakistan.

The ICC hopes 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 a member and beneficiary.

The ICC’s priority remains the successful delivery of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, which should also be the responsibility of all its members including the PCB. It expects the PCB to explore a mutually acceptable resolution that protects the interests of all stakeholders.