The International Cricket Council (ICC) has formally requested an explanation from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) regarding its decision to skip the high-profile T20 World Cup match against India.
While the global body wishes to avoid a direct confrontation, it has hinted at seeking financial compensation and potentially imposing strict sanctions for breach of contract.
According to a report by ESPNcricinfo, the PCB submitted an email citing a mandatory directive from the Pakistan government as the primary reason for boycotting the February 15 clash in Colombo.
The Pakistan government had announced the decision on social media on February 1.
The ICC has stated that to successfully apply the “force majeure” clause under the Members' Participation Agreement, the PCB must prove the situation was entirely beyond its control and detail the steps taken to mitigate the damage.
The governing body warned that the boycott could have severe sporting, commercial, and administrative repercussions, potentially leading to claims for "material damages" or even the suspension of membership for serious breach of obligations.
However, the PCB believes its legal standing is strong, citing a precedent set by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
The PCB had previously lost a case before the ICC's Dispute Resolution Committee regarding unplayed series between 2015 and 2023, where the verdict favored the BCCI based on the lack of government clearance. The PCB is now using that verdict as a shield for its current stance.
Source: UNB