The Pakistan Cricket Board’s reported stance of “selective participation” in the Men’s T20 World Cup might have significant repercussions for both the PCB and the global cricket ecosystem, the International Cricket Council (ICC) said on Sunday.
The ICC noted that the Pakistani government’s statement directing its national team to abstain from the T20 World Cup group league match against India in Colombo on February 15 was incompatible with the fundamental tenets of a global competition where all eligible teams are expected to compete under a common schedule.
“While the ICC awaits official communication from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), this position of selective participation is difficult to reconcile with the fundamental premise of a global sporting event where all qualified teams are expected to compete on equal terms,” the world body said in a strongly-worded statement.
The ICC emphasized that any departure from full participation would compromise the “spirit and sanctity” of its events, which are based on “sporting integrity, competitiveness, consistency, and fairness.” Importantly, the highest authority advised the PCB to consider the long-term effects of its position on cricket in Pakistan.
“The ICC hopes that the PCB will consider the significant and long-term implications for cricket in its own country as this is likely to impact the global cricket ecosystem, which it is itself a member and beneficiary of,” the statement made it apparent that the issue might have an impact on Pakistan’s international reputation.
Without specifically contesting Islamabad’s order, the ICC said: “While the ICC respects the roles of governments in matters of national policy, this decision is not in the interest of the global game or the welfare of fans worldwide, including millions in Pakistan.”
The governing body maintained that its immediate emphasis was the flawless staging of the T20 World Cup and that securing the event was a mutual duty of all member boards.
“The ICC’s priority remains the successful delivery of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup which should also be the responsibility of all its members including the PCB. It also expects the PCB to explore a mutually acceptable resolution, which protects the interests of all stakeholders,” it added.
Broadcasters and participating nations are likely to seek clarification in the coming days due to the development, which has sparked worries about potential violations of member duties and commercial agreements. The incident jeopardizes the PCB’s credibility within the ICC hierarchy in addition to its ability to compete.
