The standoff surrounding Pakistan’s decision to boycott its T20 World Cup group-stage match against India appears to be entering its final phase, with the International Cricket Council (ICC) rejecting several key demands raised by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) during negotiations.

Senior officials from the PCB, Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), and the ICC recently held discussions aimed at resolving the deadlock over what is widely considered the most commercially significant fixture of the tournament. Estimates suggest the India–Pakistan clash alone could be worth more than Rs 4,000 crore when broadcast, sponsorship, and commercial factors are taken into account.

According to sources, while some proposals received partial consideration, the ICC firmly declined requests that involved bilateral cricketing arrangements.

What Pakistan asked for and how the ICC responded

One of the PCB’s demands was that Bangladesh should not face any financial penalty despite not playing the T20 World Cup. The ICC clarified that this had already been decided, confirming that Bangladesh would receive its full revenue share.

The PCB also sought an additional ICC event for Bangladesh in the next cycle as compensation. In response, the ICC indicated that hosting an Under-19 World Cup during the upcoming cycle is under consideration.

However, Pakistan’s more politically sensitive proposals were rejected. The PCB urged the ICC to intervene in facilitating a bilateral series between India and Pakistan. The ICC declined, stating that bilateral series fall outside its jurisdiction, including within the framework of the World Test Championship.

A proposal for a tri-series involving India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh also met a similar fate, with the ICC reiterating that it has no authority to mandate such tournaments. Likewise, a request for ICC involvement in ensuring an India tour of Bangladesh in 2026 was turned down, with the council maintaining that international tours are decided directly between cricket boards.

Deadline given, decision awaited

Sources said the ICC has granted the PCB a 24-hour window after chairman Mohsin Naqvi requested time to consult Pakistan’s Prime Minister. A follow-up meeting is expected soon, and an official announcement from the ICC is likely within the next day.

With commercial stakes high and the tournament schedule looming, the coming hours could determine whether Pakistan formally reverses its boycott stance or allows the issue to escalate further.

Pakistan has conveyed to the International Cricket Council (ICC) that it is open to ending its proposed boycott of the India match at the T20 World Cup 2026, but only if certain conditions are met, according to media sources.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had earlier indicated it would not play the high-profile group match against India and was warned by the ICC about possible consequences of such a move. The matter was discussed during a meeting between PCB officials and ICC representatives in Lahore on Sunday.

Three demands raised during ICC meeting

According to sources, the PCB outlined three key demands aimed at resolving the broader impasse with the ICC.

The first demand relates to increased financial compensation for Bangladesh. The board believes Bangladesh deserves a higher share from the ICC, citing its contribution to international cricket and the need for greater funding to strengthen infrastructure, player development and team performance.

The second demand involves a participation fee for Bangladesh despite its early exit from the T20 World Cup. The argument put forward is that teams invest significant resources in preparation and should receive a guaranteed financial return regardless of results.

The third demand concerns hosting rights for a future ICC tournament. Bangladesh, according to the discussions, is seeking the opportunity to host a global event, with the view that it now has adequate facilities and fan support to stage a major competition.

Decision on India match still pending

While some PCB officials are understood to be open to playing the India match scheduled for February 15 in Colombo, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has not yet taken a cooperative position on the issue.

Sources said Naqvi is expected to meet Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday to seek further guidance before a final decision is made.

Background to the standoff

The ICC removed Bangladesh from the T20 World Cup last month after the team refused to travel to India for its matches, citing security concerns. The global body maintained there was no verified threat, but Bangladesh held its ground, leading to Scotland being named as a replacement.

Pakistan has since publicly supported Bangladesh’s position. In addition to discussions with the ICC, PCB officials, including Naqvi, have held talks with Bangladesh Cricket Board chief Aminul Islam Bulbul regarding the situation.

The controversy intensified after the ICC sought clarification on the use of the force majeure clause, particularly after the PCB pointed to government involvement in the decision-making process.

On-field action continues

Amid the off-field developments, Pakistan began its T20 World Cup campaign with a narrow three-wicket win over the Netherlands in Colombo on Saturday, easing early pressure on the team.

India lifted the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup 2026 title after defeating England by 100 runs in the final at Harare Sports Club on Friday. The win marked India’s sixth U19 World Cup triumph, extending their record in the tournament’s history.

Led by Ayush Mhatre, India produced a commanding all-round performance, headlined by a breathtaking century from young batting sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi.

Suryavanshi’s historic knock powers India to 411

Batting first, India posted a massive total of 411 for 9 in their allotted 50 overs. Vaibhav Suryavanshi laid the foundation with a sensational 175 off just 80 balls, an innings filled with aggressive strokeplay and clean hitting.

Suryavanshi’s knock put England under immediate pressure and helped India maintain a high scoring rate throughout the innings. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals towards the end, India crossed the 400-run mark, setting England a daunting target in the final.

England fight back through Falconer

Chasing 412, England showed early intent but lost wickets at crucial moments. Caleb Falconer emerged as England’s standout performer, scoring a remarkable 115 off 67 balls. His aggressive innings, which included multiple sixes, briefly kept England in contention and pushed the total past 300.

However, England’s middle and lower order struggled to build sustained partnerships as India’s bowlers maintained control during the latter half of the innings.

India seal emphatic win in final overs

England were eventually bowled out for 311 in 40.2 overs, handing India a commanding 100-run victory in the final. The margin of the win stands among the most convincing performances in U19 World Cup finals in recent editions.

India’s disciplined bowling effort and sharp fielding, highlighted by key catches in the deep, ensured there were no late twists in the contest.

With this victory, India once again underlined their dominance at the youth level, while Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s innings is set to be remembered as one of the defining moments of the U19 World Cup 2026.