Pakistan likely to play against India in Colombo:PCB puts forward three key demands to ICC ahead of high-profile clash

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has placed three major demands before the International Cricket Council (ICC) in an effort to resolve the ongoing dispute linked to the T20 World Cup 2026. The issue has escalated after Pakistan earlier decided to boycott its high-profile match against arch-rivals India. The ICC had warned Pakistan about serious consequences if it went ahead with the boycott. Despite this, the PCB stood firm and raised its concerns during a meeting with ICC officials held in Lahore on Sunday. The discussions were aimed at breaking the deadlock, but no final decision has been taken yet. The situation has further drawn attention as Pakistan has openly backed Bangladesh, which was recently removed from the T20 World Cup by the ICC. The controversy now involves multiple cricket boards and has become one of the biggest talking points ahead of the global tournament. PCB’s three main demands explained 1. Higher compensation for Bangladesh One of the key demands raised by the PCB is increased financial compensation for Bangladesh. According to Cricbuzz report, Bangladesh is seeking a larger share of ICC revenue, claiming that its contribution to international cricket has grown in recent years. Also read: WATCH- Gautam Gambhir hosts dinner for Team India in Delhi: Seen welcoming players at his residence; IND next face Namibia on 12 Feb The board believes that extra funding is needed to improve cricket infrastructure, support player development, and raise the overall standard of the national team. Pakistan has supported this demand during discussions with the ICC. 2. Participation fee despite early exit The second demand focuses on a guaranteed participation fee for Bangladesh, even though the team was knocked out early from the T20 World Cup. The argument is that teams spend heavily on preparation, travel, and training. Therefore, they should receive a basic financial amount regardless of how far they progress in the tournament. The PCB believes this would provide financial security to teams and encourage fair treatment. 3. Hosting rights for a future ICC event The third demand is related to future hosting rights. Bangladesh wants the opportunity to host an upcoming ICC tournament. The board feels the country now has the necessary stadiums, facilities, and fan support to successfully stage a major global event. Hosting an ICC tournament would also help boost Bangladesh’s cricket economy and increase its international visibility. Also read: Why no host nation has ever won the trophy: India knocked out South Africa in 2007; eight teams failed to qualify for semis Mohsin Naqvi to Consult Pakistan PM Sources revealed that opinions within the PCB are divided. While some officials are willing to play the India match scheduled for February 15 in Colombo, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi is reportedly not in favour. Naqvi is expected to meet Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday to discuss the matter again before taking a final call. Why Bangladesh was removed from the tournament The ICC removed Bangladesh from the T20 World Cup last month after the team refused to travel to India for its group-stage matches, citing security concerns. The ICC, however, stated that there was no verified threat and assured full safety. Despite these assurances, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), backed by the country’s interim government, stuck to its decision. As a result, the ICC replaced Bangladesh with Scotland. Also read: WATCH| Lokesh Bam hits two consecutive sixes against Jofra Archer: Barry McCarthy bowls 11 balls in an over, NZ’s highest run chase in T20 WC Pakistan stands firm with Bangladesh Following Bangladesh’s removal, Pakistan openly supported the BCB. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi and other officials also held talks with BCB president Aminul Islam Bulbul to discuss the ongoing situation. The ICC has since asked the PCB to explain how the force majeure clause could justify refusing to play, especially after Pakistan attempted to shift responsibility to its government.