The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has supported the International Cricket Council (ICC) after Pakistan decided to boycott its group-stage match against India at the T20 World Cup 2026.
BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla said the Indian board agrees with the ICC’s stand on sportsmanship. He added that the BCCI will not make any further comments until it speaks directly with the ICC.
“ICC has issued a big statement, they have spoken about sportsmanship. We completely agree with the ICC. BCCI won’t make any comments on it until we speak with the ICC,” Shukla quoted as saying News18.
The comments came after the Government of Pakistan confirmed that its team will not play against India on February 15. Pakistan has permission to take part in the tournament. However, the India match has been excluded. No clear reason was given for the decision.
“The Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan grants approval to the Pakistan Cricket Team to participate in the ICC World T20 2026; however, the Pakistan Cricket Team shall not take the field in the match scheduled on 15th February 2026 against India,” the Government of Pakistan said in a statement posted on X.
ICC Raises Concern Over “Selective Participation”
Reacting to the decision, the ICC expressed concern over what it called “selective participation.” The global body said this goes against the basic idea of a global sporting event. It added that all qualified teams are expected to play as per the official schedule.
“Selective participation is not fair with the fundamental premise of a global sporting event,” the ICC said.
The ICC also said it respects the role of governments. However, it warned that such decisions can harm the global game and disappoint fans.
“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 release stated.
The situation is similar to Bangladesh’s recent refusal to play in India. After reviews, the ICC found no real security threat. Bangladesh was later replaced by Scotland.
India are the defending champions. They are placed in Group A with Namibia, the Netherlands, the USA, and Pakistan. India will start their campaign on February 7 against the USA. Uncertainty remains over the India–Pakistan match.
