T20 World Cup: Sunil Gavaskar Calls for ICC Action After Pakistan Announces India Boycott
Legendary Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar is urging the International Cricket Council (ICC) to impose strict penalties on the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) after Pakistan decided to boycott their T20 World Cup 2026 match against India.
Despite the Pakistan government granting approval for the team to participate in the tournament, they have been instructed not to play against India on February 15 in Colombo.
The Pakistan government posted on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, that while they approved the Pakistan cricket team's participation in the ICC World T20 2026, the team would not play in the February 15 match against India.
Gavaskar's Call for ICC Intervention
Gavaskar emphasized the need for the governing body to assert its authority, highlighting the potential for Pakistan's defiance to set a disturbing precedent. He stated that withdrawing at the last moment is an issue that warrants action from the ICC. Gavaskar added that the ICC should take action to ensure that no other team considers similar actions in the future.
Background of the Boycott
Pakistan's boycott follows the ICC's denial to shift Bangladesh's matches out of India. Bangladesh wanted their T20 World Cup matches to be moved from India after Mustafizur Rahman's exit from the Indian Premier League. Pakistan supported Bangladesh's request, but the ICC denied it, which led to Scotland replacing Bangladesh in the tournament.
Consequences of Pakistan's Boycott
If Pakistan does not play against India on February 15, they will lose two points, and the ICC could impose sanctions.
Under ICC playing conditions, India will be required to follow all match-day procedures, and India captain Suryakumar Yadav is expected to arrive at the ground on time for the toss. If Pakistan does not appear for the toss, the match referee will formally award India a walkover, which carries two points in the group standings.
Potential Penalties
The ICC could stop the NOCs of overseas players for the Pakistan Super League, which could lead to financial losses. Pakistan may also lose hosting rights for ICC tournaments if the matter is not resolved.
Gavaskar's Retort
Gavaskar also suggested that fans could force the Pakistan government and board to rethink their decision, alluding to the example of Pakistani cricketers reversing their retirements.
Conclusion
Sunil Gavaskar has urged the ICC to take strict action against the PCB for boycotting the match against India in the T20 World Cup 2026. The Pakistan government has allowed its team to participate in the tournament but has barred them from playing against India. This decision has been met with criticism, and Gavaskar believes the ICC needs to intervene to prevent similar situations in the future.
