The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has signalled that it may reverse its decision to boycott the T20 World Cup match against India scheduled for February 15, but only if three conditions are met.
PCB officials met an ICC delegation in Lahore, joined by Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) chief Aminul Islam Bulbul, to discuss the matter. According to reports, Pakistan has demanded:
- A larger share of ICC revenue.
- Restoration of bilateral cricket with India.
- Enforcement of the handshake protocol.
The controversy began when Pakistan’s government announced it would not allow the team to play India, despite the fixture being at a neutral venue. Observers linked the stance to solidarity with Bangladesh, which withdrew after the ICC rejected its request to move matches out of India over security concerns.
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, ICC Deputy Chairman Imran Khwaja, ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta, and BCB president Bulbul participated in the talks. Cricbuzz reported that Bangladesh may also seek compensation from the ICC, with Pakistan expected to help broker a settlement.
Analysts believe Pakistan is leveraging the financial importance of the India–Pakistan clash, which generates massive broadcasting revenue, to push its demands. Currently, PCB earns 5.75% of ICC revenue — about USD 34.51 million annually — ranking fourth behind Australia, England, and India.
While the ICC can mediate, it cannot enforce bilateral cricket between India and Pakistan, as such decisions rest with the respective governments. The handshake protocol demand stems from India’s refusal to engage with Pakistan during the Asia Cup 2025 following the Pahalgam terror attack.
