The ICC takes note of the announcement by the Government of Pakistan regarding the decision to mandate its national team to participate selectively in the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
While the ICC awaits an official communication from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), this position of selective participation is difficult to reconcile with the basic premise of a global sporting event where all qualified teams are expected to compete on equal terms as per the schedule of the event.
ICC tournaments are built on sporting integrity, competitiveness, consistency and fairness, and selective participation undermines the spirit and sanctity of the competitions.
While the ICC respects the role of governments in matters of national politics, this decision is not in the interest of the global game or the welfare of fans around the world, including millions in Pakistan.
The ICC hopes that the PCB will consider the significant and long-term implications for cricket in its own country as it is likely to affect the global cricket ecosystem of which it is itself a member and beneficiary.
The ICC’s priority remains the successful implementation of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, for which all its members, including the PCB, should be held accountable. He expects the PCB to explore a mutually acceptable solution that will protect the interests of all stakeholders.
