Pakistan Open to Ending India Match Boycott at T20 World Cup, Puts Forward Three Conditions

Pakistan has signalled its willingness to end the boycott of its highly anticipated T20 World Cup 2026 match against India, provided three specific conditions are met, according to sources familiar with discussions held with the International Cricket Council (ICC).

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) conveyed its position during a meeting with ICC officials in Lahore on Sunday, amid ongoing controversy over Bangladesh’s removal from the tournament. The issue has increasingly influenced regional cricket politics and administrative relations within the ICC framework.

Sources said the PCB’s conditions include increased financial compensation for Bangladesh, a guaranteed participation fee for Bangladesh despite its early exit from the T20 World Cup, and the allocation of hosting rights for Bangladesh for a future ICC event.

Bangladesh has been pushing for a higher share of ICC revenue, arguing that additional funds are essential to improve cricketing infrastructure, strengthen player development programs, and enhance the national team’s global competitiveness. PCB officials reportedly support the view that teams incur substantial costs in preparing for ICC tournaments and should receive a baseline financial guarantee regardless of performance.
 

The third condition focuses on awarding Bangladesh hosting rights for a future global ICC tournament. Supporters of the proposal argue that Bangladesh now possesses adequate stadium facilities, operational readiness, and strong fan engagement to successfully host a major international event, which would also stimulate its cricket economy.

Meanwhile, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi is expected to meet Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday to seek guidance before a final decision is taken. While some officials within the PCB are reportedly open to playing the India match, scheduled for February 15 in Colombo, Naqvi is said to be proceeding cautiously.

The controversy intensified last month after the ICC removed Bangladesh from the T20 World Cup when the team declined to travel to India for group-stage matches, citing security concerns. Despite assurances from the ICC that no credible threat existed, the Bangladesh Cricket Board maintained its stance, leading to Scotland being named as a replacement.
 

Pakistan has publicly backed Bangladesh’s position, with PCB officials holding discussions with Bangladesh Cricket Board President Aminul Islam Bulbul in an effort to address the standoff. The ICC has since sought clarification on whether the force majeure clause could justify Bangladesh’s refusal to participate, particularly after the PCB indicated the decision may have been influenced by government direction.

Amid the administrative uncertainty, Pakistan began its T20 World Cup campaign with a three-wicket win over the Netherlands in Colombo on Saturday, while discussions over the India fixture continue behind the scenes.