The T20 World Cup 2026 is in a significant crisis as Pakistan has put forward three conditions for their participation in the match against India. Following a crucial meeting in Lahore on February 8, 2026, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has indicated that their attendance at the February 15 match in Colombo is uncertain.
The ICC has rejected Pakistan’s attempt to use the ‘Force Majeure’ clause, but the PCB is using discussions to push for demands they’ve had for some time. With the highly anticipated match now in doubt, everyone is watching for the ICC’s official response.
Pakistan’s 3 key demands to end India boycott for the T20 World Cup 2026
As reported by Cricbuzz, the PCB has linked their participation in the game against India to specific demands:
- Increased share of ICC revenue: The PCB is seeking a larger share of the ICC’s annual revenue, currently estimated at $34.5 million. They argue their role is crucial for driving global interest and revenue from high-stakes matches.
- Restoration of Bilateral Cricket Ties: The PCB is asking the ICC to help resume bilateral series with India, which have been on hold since 2013 due to political issues. They want a formal plan to restart regular series apart from ICC and ACC events.
- Enforcement of handshake protocols: Following the ‘no-handshake’ incidents from the Asia Cup 2025, Pakistan demands that on-field handshake protocols be enforced. This is to ensure that customary gestures of sportsmanship are upheld.
ICC rejects ‘force majeure’ by Pakistan as Colombo T20 World Cup 2026 standoff continues
The situation escalated after the ICC dismissed Pakistan’s claim regarding the Force Majeure clause, pointing out that a government directive for selective participation doesn’t provide sufficient grounds to avoid financial penalties or loss of points.
During a lengthy meeting at Gaddafi Stadium, ICC Deputy Chair Imran Khwaja suggested that the PCB take their case to an arbitration committee instead of jeopardizing the integrity of the World Cup. While Bangladesh, replaced by Scotland in the tournament, is also seeking compensation, the ICC clarified that selective non-participation violates the Members Participation Agreement, putting Pakistan in a tough spot as the February 15 deadline nears.
