The tripartite scuffle between ICC, PCB and BCB which started with the exclusion of Mustafizur Rahman from IPL, seems to find an end after having a lot of discussions and agreement and disagreement. The talks between ICC and PCB had emerged when PCB enforced a force majeure clause on ICC. Previously, ICC had asked PCB to reconsider their decision when the Pakistan government shared a tweet saying they would not appear in the match against India on February 15. ICC has also sent a notice to them about the sanctions they might have to face. After a two-day-long discussion, each party has come to a negotiation point and with that Pakistan government asked the players to take the field on the eve of February 15.
What did the Pakistan government say?
After a ten-day standoff over Pakistan’s refusal to play against India has come to an end, the Pakistan government’s statement clearly confirmed that several ICC members, Sri Lanka, and the UAE have urged the PCB not to boycott the marquee fixture, citing financial reasons.
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"In view of the outcomes achieved in multilateral discussions, as well as the request of friendly countries, the Government of Pakistan hereby directs the Pakistan National Cricket Team to take the field on February 15, 2026, for its scheduled fixture in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup. Moreover, this decision has been taken to protect the spirit of cricket, and to support the continuity of this global sport in all participating nations," the government statement added.
In reply, ICC said, “The dialogue between ICC and PCB took place as part of a broader engagement with both parties recognising the need for constructive dealings and being united, committed and purposeful in their aspirations to serve the best interests of the game with integrity, neutrality and cooperation.”
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“In that prevailing spirit, it was agreed that all members will respect their commitments as per the terms of participation for ICC events and do all that is necessary to ensure that the ongoing edition of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup is a success,” ICC added.
How will this decision impact cricket?
Mainly Asian cricket is a lot dependent on the BCCI and PCB. When ever, India- Pakistan match happens, it generates a lot of revenue, not just from ticket sales but also from streaming, broadcasting and marketing. This match has the ability to bring a sheer impact on the markets. Broadcasting and streaming partners generate a lot of revenue which allows ICC to share a marginal amount with the teams. Not only do the two participating nations in this match impact the whole cricketing umbrella. It is not just a match, but a global product, in which every second generates money and that’s why it will also help the small teams.
