BCCI backs ICC after Pakistan skips India clash
The BCCI has backed the ICC after Pakistan refused to play India at the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup, supporting the world body’s handling of the high-profile standoff. The decision, confirmed on Thursday, has sparked fresh debate around cricket’s most sensitive rivalry during the global tournament.
BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla said India fully supports the ICC’s stance. “We completely agree with the ICC. These matters are governed by tournament rules, not individual boards,” Shukla told Indian media, stressing that decisions are taken collectively.
Pakistan officials defended their move, citing political and security concerns. “Our position was communicated clearly to the ICC,” a PCB source said, adding that participation conditions were “non-negotiable.”
Former India captain Sourav Ganguly weighed in, noting, “The ICC must ensure fairness for all teams while protecting the tournament’s integrity.”
India and Pakistan last met in a T20 World Cup in 2024, a match that drew record global viewership, underlining the sporting and commercial impact of the latest boycott.