LAHORE: Negotiations Between ICC, PCB, and BCB on Pakistan’s Boycott of India Match in T20 World Cup Conclude , Major Breakthrough Possible in Next 24 Hours
The talks between the International Cricket Council (ICC), Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), and Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) regarding Pakistan’s boycott of the match against India in the T20 World Cup have concluded, with sources indicating a potential major breakthrough within the next 24 hours.
The ICC continues its efforts to convince Pakistan to play the match against India in the T20 World Cup.
In this regard, discussions took place in Lahore between ICC Deputy Chairman Imran Khwaja and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, with BCB President Aminul Islam also present.
According to sources, the negotiations lasted more than five hours, during which PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi’s primary focus remained on securing redress for the injustice done to Bangladesh.
Sources say that after the conclusion of the talks, a significant breakthrough on the matter is expected within the next 24 hours.
During the meeting, proposals were exchanged between the ICC and BCB, with the PCB acting as a mediator.
Sources added that the ICC responded positively to the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s demands, and a formula has been prepared to address the grievances against Bangladesh.
ICC Deputy Chairman Imran Khwaja has now departed to obtain final approval for the proposals.
BCB President Aminul Islam has also left to brief his government.
Sources indicate that following agreement on the mutual formula, the ICC and BCB will reconnect this afternoon.
Earlier, sources reported that PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi had told ICC Deputy Chairman Imran Khwaja that the decision not to play against India was made by the government, and any decision to play the match would also be taken by the government.
What is the issue?
Pakistan had already announced its boycott of the match against India in the World Cup as an expression of solidarity with Bangladesh. Bangladesh had expressed security concerns in India and requested that its World Cup matches be relocated to Sri Lanka. The ICC rejected this request and replaced Bangladesh with Scotland in the event.
In response, Pakistan refused to play the scheduled match against India on February 15.
Sources say that if the T20 World Cup match between Pakistan and India does not take place, the ICC will face heavy financial losses.
