The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), led by Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, has reportedly introduced a set of conditions for the national team's participation in the high-profile T20 World Cup 2026 match against India. According to media reports, during a meeting held in Lahore on 8 February involving the ICC, PCB, and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), Pakistan outlined three specific demands. This development follows earlier indications from the Pakistani government regarding a potential boycott of the fixture scheduled for 15 February 2026, citing security and diplomatic concerns.
Demand for Increased ICC Revenue Share
The first condition put forward by the PCB involves a revision of the ICC's financial distribution model. Reports suggest that Pakistan is seeking a Importantly higher share of the revenue generated by the global governing body. Analysts point out that matches between India and Pakistan are the primary drivers of broadcasting and sponsorship revenue for the ICC. Based on this economic contribution, the PCB argues that its financial allocation should be commensurate with the commercial value these matches bring to the table. However, any change to the revenue model would require a consensus among all ICC member nations.
Resumption of Bilateral Cricket Ties
The second demand centers on the restoration of bilateral cricket between India and Pakistan. The PCB has reportedly urged the ICC to facilitate a roadmap for bilateral series, which have been suspended since 2012-13 due to geopolitical tensions. Currently, the two nations only compete in ICC events and the Asia Cup. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has consistently maintained that any decision regarding bilateral cricket rests solely with the Government of India. Given the current diplomatic climate, analysts suggest that fulfilling this condition remains a significant hurdle for the ICC.
Protocol for On-Field Handshakes
The third condition involves a specific request regarding on-field conduct and sportsmanship. The PCB has reportedly demanded that Indian players participate in the traditional post-match handshake with Pakistani players during the T20 World Cup 2026. This request comes in the wake of instances where players from both sides have avoided formal handshakes following heightened tensions. While the PCB frames this as a measure to uphold the spirit of the game, experts believe that enforcing such a protocol through formal conditions is unprecedented in international cricket governance.
Analysis of Feasibility and Future Implications
According to sports analysts, the ICC faces a complex challenge in addressing these demands. The issues of bilateral ties and on-field protocols are deeply intertwined with the foreign policies of both nations. The Indian government's stance on cross-border security concerns has historically dictated the level of engagement with Pakistan in sports, while if the ICC is unable to secure guarantees on these fronts, the scheduling of the 15 February 2026 match could face logistical and administrative complications. The ICC Executive Board is expected to review these demands in its upcoming sessions to ensure the smooth conduct of the tournament.
So, to wrap up, the PCB's latest stance has added a layer of complexity to the preparations for the T20 World Cup 2026. While the ICC recognizes the commercial and sporting importance of the India-Pakistan rivalry, the resolution of these conditions depends on broader diplomatic negotiations. The global cricket community now awaits an official statement from the ICC and the subsequent response from the BCCI regarding these developments.