PCB Considers India Match Boycott, Decision Pending After First Two World Cup Games
Amid ongoing deliberations with the Pakistan government, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly narrowing the scope of a potential boycott from the entire T20 World Cup to just the Group A match against India scheduled for February 15. A recent media report suggests the PCB is carefully weighing the political, legal, and financial implications of such a move.
According to Telecom Asia Sport, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi held an extensive meeting with the Prime Minister on Monday to review all available options. Naqvi is reportedly seeking guidance at the highest political level before the government makes a final decision, expected either on Friday or early next week.
“Naqvi is currently visiting the United Arab Emirates with President Zardari and has consulted him during the trip,” sources told the publication. “He also plans to seek advice from several former PCB chairmen in the coming days.”
The report added that the PCB is exploring all possible scenarios before arriving at a decision, which could have far-reaching consequences beyond the tournament itself.
Internally, the possibility of boycotting the India fixture has been widely discussed. However, if Pakistan participates in the tournament, a final call on forfeiting the India match will only be made after the team’s first two games—against the Netherlands on February 7 and the USA on February 10.
“As far as the India game is concerned, Pakistan will wait to see how the team performs in the first two matches. If Pakistan wins both, the chances of forfeiting the India fixture will increase,” a source said.
Forfeiting the high-profile clash could trigger significant repercussions, including legal action from the host broadcasters.
“Naqvi has been advised by PCB legal experts that a $3 billion broadcast deal with JioStar Sports (India) runs until the end of 2027, with revenues shared among all ICC member boards,” the source added. “If Pakistan boycotts the India match—a major revenue generator—the broadcaster could seek compensation in court. The ICC would then issue a notice to the PCB, potentially affecting funding for all member boards.”
