ISLAMABAD: Speculation over Pakistan’s potential withdrawal from the ICC T20 World Cup has intensified after some Indian media outlets claimed the International Cricket Council (ICC) could impose “unprecedented” sanctions on Pakistan cricket.
The reports suggested that if Pakistan pulled out, the ICC could penalise the Pakistan Super League (PSL), restrict foreign players, reduce Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) revenue, revoke PSL’s international status, suspend bilateral series, and even exclude Pakistan from the Asia Cup.
However, legal experts and cricket governance specialists say these claims lack a solid basis. ICC rules and past precedents indicate that its authority is limited and does not extend to domestic leagues or bilateral series.
The debate began after PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi spoke in support of Bangladesh. Bangladesh had refused to play in India due to security concerns, requesting its matches be shifted to Sri Lanka. ICC sided with India and replaced Bangladesh with Scotland when Dhaka refused to relent. Indian media then suggested that Pakistan could face isolation if it took similar action.
In this context, Naqvi met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday. He provided a detailed briefing on the ICC’s handling of the Bangladesh issue and other related matters. According to Naqvi, no final decision has been made on Pakistan’s participation. The government will consult further, with an announcement expected by Friday or Monday.
Experts note that ICC’s real authority is limited to tournament participation. It cannot dictate domestic leagues, manage bilateral series, or control regional competitions such as the Asia Cup, which is currently chaired by Pakistan.
Past examples reinforce this view. Several countries, including India, have previously refused tours due to security or government directives without facing punitive measures or isolation from international cricket.
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Naqvi emphasized that Pakistan will not act unilaterally. Any decision will follow government guidance. While a withdrawal could have political, commercial, and sporting implications, the idea that ICC could fully paralyze Pakistan cricket is not supported by rules or precedent.
The PCB continues to monitor the situation closely and consult with relevant stakeholders before finalizing its stance on the T20 World Cup.
