Pakistan likely to drop India match boycott amid talks over increased ICC funding: Reports

As the T20 World Cup begins today, the drama around one of cricket’s most storied rivalries is once again in focus. 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 in February. According to reports, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is likely using the decision as leverage to seek an increase in annual funding from the International Cricket Council (ICC).

The boycott of the India vs. Pakistan match could reportedly cost world cricket more than $250 million in revenue, underlining the commercial significance of the fixture.

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However, behind-the-scenes negotiations are ongoing. The PCB is reportedly in backchannel talks with the ICC, with Singapore Cricket Association chairman Imran Khawaja and Oman Cricket chief Pankaj Khimji acting as mediators. A source close to the developments told Telecom Asia Sport that a solution now appears closer for what is considered the highest revenue-generating match of the T20 World Cup.

“Pakistan’s strong stance has put them in a good position to bargain for long-standing demands. Many cricket administrators have felt that Pakistan, being a crucial part of the most lucrative fixture in world cricket, deserves greater funding,” the source was quoted as saying.

According to the report, Pakistan currently receives $34.5 million annually from the ICC revenue pool, ranking fourth behind India, England, and Australia.

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has also stepped in to convince Pakistan to reconsider its stance, as co-hosts stand to lose significant foreign exchange revenue from travelling Indian fans and gate receipts for the high-profile match.

Beyond financial concerns, the PCB is also pushing for ICC mediation to revive bilateral ties with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). However, sources indicated that the resumption of full bilateral series remains unlikely without clearance from the Indian government.

The PCB has reportedly conveyed that it will persuade the Pakistan government to reverse the decision if its demands are met, including assurances on funding and broader cricketing ties.