The International Cricket Council (ICC) has formally requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to provide written reasons for its decision to withdraw from the upcoming tour to Pakistan, following a request from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for official documentation.
Initially, the BCCI informed the ICC verbally of its decision not to travel to Pakistan for the tournament. However, the ICC is now insisting on receiving the reasons in writing, which could potentially allow the PCB to request substantial evidence to support India’s withdrawal. If the reasons provided by India are deemed insufficient, the ICC may pressure the BCCI to reconsider its stance and honor the tour, sources suggest.
The withdrawal of India from the tournament could have significant financial repercussions. It is estimated that the ICC could face losses of up to $500 million, largely due to the impact on broadcasting rights, sponsorships, and advertising revenue. Additionally, the absence of India-Pakistan matches would result in a financial blow to the BCCI, with losses of approximately $100 million.
The ICC is expected to review India’s written explanation carefully before making a final decision on the matter.
