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.