The deadlock about the India versus Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026 match has reached its most important point. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) reached a new position after they conducted a five-hour meeting at Gaddafi Stadium because they now require three conditions before International Cricket Council (ICC) will allow them to play the Colombo match scheduled for February 15.
The “Three Demands” Twist
Sources reveal that PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi shows public resistance while he discusses a plan for a “U-turn” movement. The PCB has laid out the following conditions to end the impasse:
Higher ICC Revenue Share: Pakistan is seeking an increased slice of the ICC’s annual financial model, citing their central role in the tournament’s commercial success.
Restoration of Bilateral Ties: The PCB is pushing for an ICC mandate or intervention to resume bilateral cricket series with India, which have been frozen for over a decade.
Strict Handshake Protocols: Naqvi has established new matchday regulations which require players to follow established customs of greeting each other because recent “no-handshake” incidents (especially during the Asia Cup) created issues.
Breaking the Deadlock: The Stakeholders
The Lahore meeting involved more than two countries because it included international representatives. The presence of Imran Khawaja (ICC Deputy Chairman) and Aminul Islam (Bangladesh Cricket Board President) signals a multilateral effort to save the tournament’s “crown jewel” fixture.
The Bangladesh Factor: The row began after Bangladesh was replaced by Scotland following their refusal to travel to India. The PCB initially announced the boycott in solidarity with the BCB.
ICC’s Warning: The global body has reportedly informed the PCB that a forfeit would result in “catastrophic” financial penalties and a massive hit to Pakistan’s Net Run Rate (NRR), effectively ending their Super 8 hopes before the tournament truly begins.
Sri Lanka Pressure: Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has asked Pakistan to change its position because they co-host the event and estimate their losses at $250 million which would result from Canceling the major match.
Next Step: The PM’s Final Word
The Pakistani government has yet to make its final decision despite the Lahore meeting progress. Mohsin Naqvi will meet Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif today because he holds both his current position and the role of Interior Minister.
Team India has committed to their scheduled time. Captain Suryakumar Yadav confirmed the team’s flight to Colombo is booked, stating, “We did not refuse to play. The refusal came from them. We are going.”
