New Delhi, February 9: The upcoming cricket match between India and Pakistan is generating significant buzz, not just for the sport itself but for various underlying factors. Scheduled for February 15 during the T20 World Cup 2026, the match has become a focal point of interest following Pakistan’s refusal to play against India in support of Bangladesh.
On Sunday, a high-level meeting involving the ICC, PCB, and BCB took place in Lahore. This meeting, held at the Gaddafi Stadium, lasted over five hours. Key figures in attendance included PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, ICC Vice President Imran Khwaja, and BCB President Aminul Islam. The ICC aimed to resolve disputes and facilitate the India-Pakistan match during this crucial discussion.
The presence of the Bangladesh Cricket Board added further significance to the meeting. Aminul Islam’s arrival in Lahore signaled the ICC’s intention to unify all relevant boards towards a consensus. Sources indicate that the views of the Pakistan and Bangladesh boards aligned on several issues during the talks.
The ICC’s primary focus is to prevent the crisis from escalating, as the India-Pakistan match is not merely a cricket contest; it is a major revenue generator for the tournament. Broadcast rights, sponsorships, advertisements, and global viewership all revolve around this single match. If Pakistan withdraws from the contest, it could directly impact the value of the ICC’s broadcast package, resulting in reduced annual payments to all member boards, including Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh.
Reports suggest that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) plans to clarify its stance on boycotting the group-stage match against India within the next 24 hours, following a lengthy and crucial meeting with senior ICC officials in Lahore. The PCB may consult with the Pakistani government before making a final decision.
Previously, on February 2, the PCB announced its intention to boycott the match against India after consulting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.