T20 World Cup 2026: ICC Concerned Over Pakistan’s Boycott of India Match, Tasks Deputy Chairman Imran Khwaja to Persuade PCB

Colombo/Dubai – February 4, 2026
The International Cricket Council (ICC) is reportedly in a state of concern following Pakistan’s announcement to boycott their group-stage match against India in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The Pakistan government declared on Sunday that the national team would participate in the tournament but would not take the field against India on February 15 in Colombo.
According to reports from Indian and international media outlets, the ICC has initiated back-channel talks to resolve the standoff and has assigned the responsibility to its Deputy Chairman Imran Khwaja. Khwaja, who represents the Singapore Cricket Association and is viewed as a neutral figure within the ICC, has been tasked with engaging the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to convince them to play the high-profile fixture.
Khwaja has reportedly been asked to act as a “peacemaker” in the current situation. The match is scheduled for February 15, 2026, at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
The ICC fears significant commercial damage if the match does not proceed, as India vs Pakistan clashes are among the most lucrative events in world cricket, potentially costing hundreds of millions in broadcast and sponsorship revenue. Reports indicate broadcasters may pursue legal action, and influential ICC members such as England and Australia have privately expressed displeasure.
No formal communication has been received from the PCB by the ICC so far, and discussions are continuing through informal channels. The ICC has also warned Pakistan of potential sanctions and financial penalties if the boycott proceeds.
All eyes are now on the outcome of these back-channel negotiations in the coming days.