The Pakistan Cricket Board has firmly rejected claims circulating in Indian media that it approached the International Cricket Council to reconsider its boycott of the T20 World Cup match against India. The board clarified that no communication was initiated with the ICC regarding the decision, calling the reports misleading and factually incorrect.
Indian media outlets had suggested that Pakistan sought dialogue after being warned of possible legal consequences. However, the PCB dismissed these assertions and stated that it stood by its original position without any change or reconsideration.
Spokesperson Issues Clear Rebuttal
PCB spokesperson Amir Mir categorically rejected claims made by an Indian sports journalist who alleged that the board had reached out to the ICC for talks. He stated that sections of the Indian media were once again circulating fictional narratives and urged patience, saying the truth would become evident with time.
Mir emphasized that the PCB neither requested discussions nor attempted to reverse its stance. He added that misleading stories were being pushed without verification, which distorted the facts surrounding the situation.
Allegations Termed Fabricated
Reports claimed that the PCB invoked “force majeure” to withdraw from the match and that the ICC warned of sanctions. According to the PCB, these claims are baseless and do not reflect reality. The spokesperson reiterated that such narratives were being fabricated to create confusion and pressure.
He further stated that the board would not respond to speculation and would allow facts to speak for themselves.
Government Decision Behind Boycott
Pakistan’s government has approved the national team’s participation in the T20 World Cup. However, it decided that Pakistan would not play the group-stage match against India scheduled for February 15 in Colombo. The decision was taken in solidarity with Bangladesh, which was excluded from the tournament after refusing to play matches in India due to security concerns.
Financial and Sporting Implications
India-Pakistan matches are considered among the most lucrative fixtures in global cricket, generating millions through broadcasting rights and sponsorships. Media reports have suggested that Sri Lanka Cricket urged Pakistan to reconsider the boycott, warning that cancellation could affect tourism and revenue as Sri Lanka continues to recover from its 2022 economic crisis.
Future Matches Still Uncertain
Pakistan captain Salman Agha stated that any potential meeting with India in the semi-final or final would only be decided after consultation with the government. For now, the PCB has maintained its position and firmly rejected all claims suggesting otherwise.
