PCB sets 3 conditions to play India match

The International Cricket Council (ICC) sent a two-member delegation to Pakistan on Sunday to meet with PCB President Mohsin Naqvi to resolve the impasse over the T20 World Cup and the India-Pakistan match.

The meeting was also attended by Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) President Aminul Islam after he arrived in Pakistan on Sunday morning.

During the meeting at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on Sunday, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi outlined the conditions, which include: increased compensation for Bangladesh – The PCB is backing Bangladesh’s demand for a higher financial share from the ICC, citing the country’s growing role in global cricket. Enhanced funding is seen as vital for infrastructure, talent development, and competitive standards, NDTV reports.
Earlier, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) denied approaching the ICC after reports surfaced that back-channel talks began between the two parties regarding the fate of the T20 World Cup match against India on February 15 in Colombo. Earlier this week, the PCB finally informed the apex body that they can't take the field against India due to the order issued by the Government of Pakistan.

The PCB invoked ‘Force majeure’; however, the ICC wasn't satisfied and has asked the Pakistan body to explain how ‘Force Majeure’ is applicable in this case.

The ICC has also informed the PCB that it may face sanctions if it fails to provide a logical explanation for boycotting just one game rather than the entire tournament.

Earlier, Pakistan announced it would not play India in Colombo. This decision was taken to show solidarity with Bangladesh after they were ousted from the T20 World Cup, which began on Saturday, February 7.

The ICC had earlier issued an official statement, warning the PCB of severe consequences and urging the PCB and its chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, to consider the long-term implications of their decision.

Speaking of the T20 World Cup, the tournament got underway in Colombo with Pakistan beating the Netherlands in the opener by three wickets. Pakistan are in Group A alongside India, the Netherlands, Namibia and the USA.

Pakistan will next face the US on Tuesday in Colombo, at the SSC Ground in Colombo.