The Pakistan government has announced that it will be boycotting the India game in the upcoming T20I World Cup. This news has not exactly been taken seriously, as many in the industry think that this may not be the final word on the issue.
However, we do not know if PCB has sent a formal letter to the ICC regarding the issue. In the cricketing circles, there are talks that there will be severe consequences if Pakistan chooses to forfeit the India game. ICC will not take this lightly when the unilateral decision from PCB questions its sovereignty and autonomy. ICC will surely give a pushback to the decision of Pakistan.
The ICC made its stance clear on the matter that they do not want a wrong precedent. They will go to any extent if its authority is questioned. However, it is not clear what they will do if that happens. There is a possibility that it may ask the member boards not to issue NOCs for the Pakistan Super League. They can also impose a ban on Pakistan from the Asia Cup. There is also a chance of withdrawing PCB’s share of ICC revenues.
On late Sunday night, ICC issued a warning against selective participation in the event. They issued a threat that the selective participation will not be tolerated.
“This position of selective participation is difficult to reconcile with the fundamental premise of a global sporting event where all qualified teams are expected to compete on equal terms per the event schedule. ICC tournaments are built on sporting integrity, competitiveness, consistency, and fairness, and selective participation undermines the spirit and sanctity of the competitions.”
“The ICC’s priority remains the successful delivery of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, which should also be the responsibility of all its members, including the PCB. It expects the PCB to explore a mutually acceptable resolution, which protects the interests of all stakeholders.”
“While the ICC respects the roles of governments in matters of national policy, this decision is not in the interest of the global game or the welfare of fans worldwide, including millions in Pakistan and went on to add, “The ICC hopes that the PCB will consider the significant and long-term implications for cricket in its own country as this is likely to impact the global cricket ecosystem, which it is itself a member and beneficiary of.”
