LAHORE: Pakistan skips India T20 World Cup match scheduled for February 15, prompting the International Cricket Council (ICC) to initiate back-channel talks aimed at resolving the dispute and preventing major financial losses.
The announcement came roughly 15 days before the blockbuster fixture, giving the ICC enough time to explore possible options and address any concerns raised by Pakistan. Sources say several cricket boards have also stepped in to support efforts toward an amicable solution with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
Why Pakistan Skips India T20 World Cup Match
Pakistan has not provided a specific reason for boycotting the match. Historically, teams have forfeited World Cup fixtures over security or political concerns. Australia and the West Indies declined to play in Sri Lanka during the 1996 World Cup, while England and New Zealand skipped matches against Zimbabwe and Kenya in 2003.
Some experts have termed the move a mistake due to the lack of a clear explanation. However, insiders claim the PCB has accounted for this and may rely on proceedings from the ICC’s Dispute Resolution Committee (DRC) linked to a 2018 case against India.
2018 PCB-BCCI Dispute Still Relevant
The legal dispute originated after India failed to honour a 2014 memorandum of understanding between the PCB and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which outlined six bilateral series between 2015 and 2023.
During the hearing, the PCB asked the BCCI to explain its refusal to tour Pakistan. Initially, the BCCI said it was not obligated to provide a reason but later cited the Indian government’s lack of approval. When written proof was requested, the PCB was reportedly told that such directives were communicated verbally.
Sources worry that the BCCI’s influence within the ICC could again result in a ruling against Pakistan, potentially leading to fines or sanctions. In that scenario, Pakistan may consider approaching an international court of arbitration.
Bangladesh Case May Have Influenced the Decision
Observers believe Pakistan skips India T20 World Cup match partly due to a recent ICC decision involving Bangladesh. The ICC rejected Bangladesh’s request to relocate its matches from India to Sri Lanka over security concerns and instead excluded the team from the tournament, replacing it with Scotland.
The decision passed with a 14-2 majority, with only Pakistan and Bangladesh voting against it.
Huge Financial Stakes for ICC
The India-Pakistan clash is widely regarded as the most lucrative match in international cricket and a cornerstone of the ICC’s revenue model. Media estimates place its commercial value at around $500 million, including broadcast rights, sponsorships, advertising premiums, ticket sales, and related commercial activity.
Advertising slots during an India-Pakistan T20 typically sell for between Rs2.5 million and Rs4 million per 10 seconds, underscoring the financial risks if the match does not take place.
ICC Urges Immediate Resolution
Following the announcement, the ICC issued a strongly worded statement urging the PCB to find a mutually acceptable solution that protects the interests of all stakeholders.
The governing body stressed that selective participation is difficult to reconcile with the spirit of a global sporting event and warned that such decisions undermine integrity, competitiveness, and fairness.
While acknowledging the role of governments in national policy matters, the ICC said the move is not in the interest of the global game or millions of fans worldwide.
What Happens If Pakistan Does Not Play?
Reports suggest that even if Pakistan maintains its stance, India could still travel to Colombo for the scheduled match. If Pakistan fails to field a team, tournament regulations are expected to award the points to India.
FAQs About Pakistan Skipping India T20 World Cup Match
Why did Pakistan skip the India T20 World Cup match?
Pakistan has not officially stated a reason, but analysts believe legal disputes, political tensions, and recent ICC decisions may have influenced the move.
What is the ICC doing about the situation?
The ICC has started back-channel talks with the PCB and other cricket boards to reach a resolution and avoid financial losses.
How valuable is the India vs Pakistan match?
The fixture is estimated to generate around $500 million through broadcasting, sponsorships, advertising, and ticket sales.
What happens if Pakistan refuses to play?
Under tournament rules, India may be awarded the points if Pakistan does not field a team.
Could Pakistan face penalties?
There is concern that Pakistan could face fines or sanctions if the ICC rules against it, though the country may pursue legal options if needed.