In a shocking turn of events that sent ripples through the international cricket community Pakistan the government officially intervened Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) transactions. when confirming his participation ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026the government has expressly banned the national team from participating in a high-stakes clash against arch-rivals. IndiaIt is scheduled to be held on 15 February 2026 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. This unprecedented move of selective participation drew sharp criticism from the legendary Indian cricketer. Sunil Gavaskarwho called for International Cricket Council (ICC) take decisive action.
Sunil Gavaskar wants ICC action after PCB boycotts Indian fixture
Known for his direct and insightful comments, Gavaskar did not mince words when discussing the aftermath of Pakistan’s selection boycott. Speaking to India Today, Gavaskar stressed that such a late withdrawal essentially threatens the foundation of international sport ahead of a global tournament. He argued that if the team chooses to pull out well before the schedule is finalized, it’s a manageable logistical hurdle; however, it is a breach of sporting integrity to withdraw from a particular match at the last minute.
He urged the ICC to get involved, noting that multiple councils should be involved in the decision-making process to ensure a fair but firm response. According to Gavaskar, the punishment should be significant enough to act as a deterrent so that no other team in the future considers hosting a global event as a hostage to political whims. The Little Master suggested that the board could reverse the decision under mounting global pressure, as even retired Pakistani cricketers often make U-turns.
“Of course, I think if you pull out at the last minute, that’s one thing. If you pull out earlier, that’s a whole other thing. But if you pull out at the last minute, right before the tournament, then yes, I think of course the ICC has to come in and take some steps. I don’t know what action they’re going to take, but I think there will be a lot of other things.” Gavaskar reported this with reference to “India Today”.
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ICC backlash and potential sanctions for PCB
The ICC responded with a rare, stern statement expressing its deep dismay at the move. The governing body stressed that selective participation is difficult to reconcile with the basic principle of a world-class sporting event where all qualified nations are expected to compete on equal terms. While the ICC acknowledged the role of national governments in policy matters, it argued that this particular decision undermined the spirit of the game and ignored the welfare of millions of fans, including those inside Pakistan.
“The ICC will probably take legal action against Pakistan for refusing to play against India, but I cannot say what the outcome of such action will be. I am sure the ICC will be extremely unhappy with this decision by the Pakistan government.” Gavaskar concluded.
The consequences of PCBs can be disastrous. Insiders suggest that if the boycott stands, the match will be treated as a defeat, resulting in an automatic loss of two points and a significant hit to Pakistan’s Net Run Rate. Apart from the scoreboard, the ICC is said to have taken serious disciplinary action. These may include:
- Financial penalties: Withholding a portion of ICC revenue sharing (where Pakistan has a 5.75% share).
- League restrictions: No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for participation of overseas players. Pakistan Super League (PSL)will reduce the commercial value of the league.
- Hosting rights: Reassessing Pakistan’s ability to host future global events.
As the start date of the tournament on February 7 approaches, the cricketing world remains on edge. It remains to be seen whether the PCB will bow to international pressure or stick to the government’s mandate, but as Gavaskar pointed out, the sanctity of the World Cup is at stake now.
