TBM Sports
The global cricket community reacted with disappointment after Pakistan announced a boycott of its match against India over the Bangladesh issue. The International Cricket Council (ICC), the sport’s highest governing body, subsequently held meetings in an effort to bring Pakistan back for the group-stage match against India. Following those discussions, Pakistan appears to have reconsidered its stance. According to Indian media outlet NDTV, Pakistan will play against India.
Citing sources, NDTV reported that a mediator’s “formula” has been devised to resolve the impasse between the ICC and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).
The report further said the ICC had made it clear that Pakistan could face severe sanctions if it boycotted the match without a justifiable reason. It was also claimed that BCB President Aminul Islam personally urged the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to help resolve the crisis and preserve cricketing relations.
Had the match been cancelled, it would have resulted in an estimated commercial loss of nearly $500 million, a significant portion of which would have directly affected the PCB.
According to NDTV sources, while Pakistan has tacitly agreed to play, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi stated that the final decision would be taken by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Once approval is granted — expected either late Monday night or by Tuesday — the PCB will make an official announcement.
Earlier, a tripartite meeting was held to resolve the issue. The meeting was attended by ICC Deputy Chairman Imran Khwaja, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and BCB President Aminul Islam Bulbul. The primary agenda was Pakistan’s proposed boycott of the match against India.
During the meeting, the ICC placed several demands before the PCB. However, NDTV claimed that not all of Pakistan’s demands were accepted. In particular, the ICC rejected Pakistan’s call for the resumption of bilateral series with India, stating that such a decision falls under the purview of the Indian government.
The ICC, however, reportedly responded positively to proposals regarding financial compensation for Bangladesh and the possibility of hosting major tournaments in the future.
