The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has stepped into a tense debate surrounding the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 by seeking compensation for Bangladesh after the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) was removed from the tournament. The situation has escalated as Pakistan has threatened to boycott its high-profile match against India on February 15 in Colombo.
On Sunday, a four-hour meeting at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium brought together ICC officials, PCB representatives, and the BCB, but ended without a clear resolution. PCB sources said any final statements would require government approval. Pakistan argued that Bangladesh’s exclusion, which came after its request to shift matches out of India was denied, was unfair and deserved financial redress.
The PCB has reportedly requested full compensation for Bangladesh, assurance of its participation fee, and future ICC hosting rights to balance the situation. But the ICC reportedly told Pakistan it could not offer additional compensation, beyond ensuring Bangladesh receives its share of ICC revenues. Officials suggested the PCB could pursue the matter through formal ICC channels like arbitration or the board.
Bangladesh had asked to move its World Cup matches out of India due to player safety concerns, but the ICC rejected this. Scotland has now replaced Bangladesh in the tournament. Pakistan’s boycott threat is closely tied to this issue, and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has publicly supported the stance, emphasizing solidarity with Bangladesh.
The looming boycott could have serious repercussions. The ICC has warned of financial and sporting consequences, including potential legal claims under its Members Participation Agreement. Cricket authorities, including Sri Lanka Cricket, have appealed to Pakistan to reconsider to protect the tournament’s integrity and commercial interests.
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