PCB Denies Indian Media Claims of Contacting ICC Over T20 World Cup Boycott

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has strongly rejected reports from Indian media suggesting it approached the International Cricket Council (ICC) to discuss boycotting the 2026 T20 World Cup match against India, calling the claims completely false. PCB spokesperson Amir Mir issued a firm rebuttal, stating the board did not initiate any communication with the ICC on this matter and accusing some Indian outlets of spreading misleading narratives.

Mir directly responded to the report by Indian journalist Vikrant Gupta, saying, “I categorically reject the claim by Indian sports journalist Vikrant Gupta that PCB approached the ICC.” He added that patience would reveal who actually reached out and who did not, emphasizing that the PCB was not involved in any such dialogue.

The statement comes amid growing speculation after Pakistan’s government invoked a ‘force majeure’ directive, which reportedly allows for selective non-participation against India. Reports suggested that the ICC raised concerns over the move, warning of possible contractual, commercial, and governance implications if Pakistan made a unilateral decision. Indian media also claimed the ICC sought clarification from the PCB about the force majeure clause and potential steps to mitigate its impact, while cautioning about legal consequences and sanctions.

Despite these claims, the PCB has dismissed the narrative, maintaining that it did not enter into discussions with the ICC. The board has reiterated that it will not accept what it calls fictional reporting, insisting the truth will become clear with time.