ICC urges PCB to find “Mutual Solution” over T20 World Cup participation
By Nawaz Gohar ; The International Cricket Council (ICC) has taken notice of the Government of Pakistan’s recent statement regarding instructions to its national team to participate in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 on a “selective” basis and urges the PCB to find a mutually acceptable solution to this matter that ensures the protection of the interests of all stakeholders.
The ICC stated that while it is still awaiting a formal communication from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), this stance of selective participation is inconsistent with the core objective of a global sporting event, where all qualified teams are expected to compete on equal terms according to the fixed schedule.
According to the ICC, all Council tournaments are built on the principles of sporting integrity, competition, continuity, and transparency. Selective participation by teams undermines the spirit and sanctity of these competitions.
The statement further added that while the ICC respects the role of governments in matters of national policy, this decision is not in the interest of the global game or cricket fans worldwide, including the millions of fans in Pakistan.
The ICC expressed hope that the PCB would consider the long-term and serious implications for cricket within its own country, as such a move risks impacting the entire global cricket structure, of which Pakistan is both a member and a beneficiary.
The international body clarified that its top priority is the successful hosting of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, which is a shared responsibility of all member nations, including the PCB.
