Overview:
While the PCB has asked the ICC to play a mediating role with the BCCI, the move is expected to stall as the final call lies with India’s government.
India vs Pakistan remains the marquee fixture of every ICC tournament, consistently delivering unmatched commercial value. The rivalry has historically generated significant returns for the governing body, broadcasters, and host nations. However, a Pakistan government post on social platforms claiming the team will skip the 2026 T20 World Cup clash against India has sent ripples through the global cricket community.
The fate of the India-Pakistan clash scheduled for February 15 in Sri Lanka remains uncertain, even as indications emerge that Pakistan its position. Behind the scenes, the PCB has been holding talks with ICC deputy chair Imran Khwaja to solve the concerns.
According to reports, Pakistan shares strong ties with Sri Lanka Cricket, and following an official communication from Colombo, there is growing consideration of the financial impact Sri Lanka could face if the fixture is called off. A source told Telecom Asia Sport that “there is now a clear pathway for the T20 World Cup’s biggest commercial draw to be staged.”
The PCB ranks fourth in the ICC’s annual revenue distribution, trailing only India, England and Australia, with its share estimated at roughly USD 34.5 million. “Pakistan’s firm position has strengthened its hand in negotiations over issues the PCB has raised for years. Many administrators believe that, given Pakistan’s central role in the sport’s biggest revenue-earning fixture, the board deserves a larger financial share,” the source said.
Pakistan has continued to lobby for the return of bilateral cricket with India, a rivalry that has been on hold for years amid ongoing political friction. The two sides last faced each other in a full series in 2013. While the PCB has asked the ICC to play a mediating role with the BCCI, the move is expected to stall as the final call lies with India’s government.
“Beyond seeking a higher revenue share, Pakistan is also pushing the ICC to step in and facilitate talks with the BCCI to restart bilateral cricket. The call to avoid full series rests with the government, not the BCCI, and unless New Delhi approves, a revival of bilateral ties remains unlikely,” the source added.
There was a big controversy when Indian players chose not to engage in the traditional handshake with Pakistan, reflecting the fallout from the terror attack in 2024.
Pakistan have already registered a win in the tournament.