ICC Issues Strong Warning Over India–Pakistan Match Boycott

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has warned the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) of serious legal consequences over its decision to boycott the T20 World Cup match against India scheduled for the 15th of this month. The ICC indicated that the official World Cup broadcaster, JioStar, may approach the courts over the issue. Reports suggest that the ICC has temporarily withheld nearly ₹315 crore, which is PCB’s share of annual revenues, and may use the amount to compensate the broadcaster for potential losses.

According to officials, the PCB has not yet formally communicated its decision to boycott the India match to the ICC in writing. An official noted that the broadcasting agreement signed by the ICC four years ago clearly includes India–Pakistan matches, based on which the broadcaster made substantial payments. This gives the broadcaster the legal right to proceed against both the PCB and the ICC. Meanwhile, speculation is growing that the PCB may reconsider and withdraw its boycott decision in order to avoid legal complications.