Dubai: The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Sunday warned the Pakistan Cricket Board’s reported position of “selective participation” in the Men’s T20 World Cup could have far-reaching consequences for the PCB and the global cricket ecosystem.
Taking note of the statement issued by the Pakistan government instructing its national team of boycotting the T20 World Cup group league game against India in Colombo on February 15, the ICC said such a move was incompatible with the basic principles of a world event where all qualified sides are expected to compete under a common schedule.
“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,” the world body said in a strongly-worded statement.
In a strongly worded statement, the ICC said that selective participation was difficult to align with the core premise of a global sporting event, where all qualified teams are expected to compete under a common schedule and framework.
The governing body underlined that its tournaments are built on sporting integrity, competitiveness and fairness, adding that any deviation from full participation risks undermining the spirit and sanctity of its events.
Warning on long-term impact for Pakistan cricket
Significantly, the ICC urged the PCB to consider the broader and long-term consequences of such a position, not only for the tournament but also for cricket in Pakistan.
The ICC noted that Pakistan is an integral part of the global cricket ecosystem and a beneficiary of its structure, suggesting that actions taken now could affect its standing within the international framework in the future.
Respect for governments, focus on the event
Without directly challenging the directive attributed to Islamabad, the ICC said it respected the role of governments in matters of national policy. However, it maintained that decisions affecting participation in world events were not in the interests of the global game or fans, including those in Pakistan.
The council reiterated that its immediate priority was the smooth conduct of the Men’s T20 World Cup and said this responsibility rested collectively with all member boards, including the PCB.
Call for a negotiated resolution
The ICC said it expected the PCB to work towards a mutually acceptable solution that protected the interests of all stakeholders. The situation has raised concerns over potential breaches of member obligations and commercial arrangements, with broadcasters and participating nations likely to seek clarity.
