ICC rejects PCB’s three demands amid India match boycott row: Report

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has reportedly rejected three key demands put forward by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) amid escalating tensions over Pakistan’s refusal to play India in their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 fixture scheduled for February 15 in Colombo.

According to reports, the PCB presented multiple demands during a high-level meeting held in Lahore on Sunday, as part of ongoing negotiations with ICC officials. The Pakistan board is believed to be pushing for concessions in return for reconsidering its boycott stance.

Advertisement

One of Pakistan’s primary demands was a bilateral series against India, which the ICC declined, stating that bilateral tours fall outside its jurisdiction, even within the World Test Championship framework. The ICC also rejected PCB’s proposal for a tri-series involving India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.

The PCB reportedly voiced support for the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), with Bangladeshi officials also present at the meeting. Pakistan urged the ICC to ensure that India tours Bangladesh later this year for a series that was postponed in 2025. However, the ICC reiterated that it cannot intervene in bilateral scheduling matters.

Meanwhile, the ICC is said to have considered Pakistan’s request for compensation for Bangladesh after the Women’s T20 World Cup was moved from Bangladesh to Dubai last year. There is speculation that Bangladesh could be awarded hosting rights for a future ICC Under-19 World Cup as a compensatory measure.

Another key PCB demand was that Bangladesh continue receiving its share of ICC revenue. The governing body has already decided not to impose any financial penalties on Bangladesh.

The ICC has reportedly given the PCB a 24-hour window to make a final decision on their participation in the India match. The matter is now expected to be discussed at the highest political level, with the PCB chairman likely to meet Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday evening. A final verdict is expected shortly.

Both India and Pakistan have started their T20 World Cup campaigns with victories. Pakistan edged past the Netherlands in a close contest, while India registered a 29-run win over the USA in their opening fixture.