The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Saturday denied claims that it had approached the International Cricket Council (ICC) over Pakistan’s decision to boycott its T20 World Cup match against India on February 15.
In a statement posted on social media platform X, PCB spokesperson Amir Mir rejected assertions made by Indian sports journalist Vikrant Gupta. Mir said the PCB had not contacted the ICC and dismissed reports suggesting otherwise.
Earlier, Gupta had claimed on X that the PCB had “reached out to the ICC for dialogue” after receiving a response from the global body outlining possible legal consequences. He alleged that this prompted the board to seek talks to resolve the issue.
Responding to these claims, Mir said sections of the Indian media were spreading false narratives. He added that time would reveal who had initiated contact and who had not.
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The denial came after AFP reported, citing a source close to the developments, that the PCB had contacted the ICC following a formal communication. According to the source, the ICC was seeking to resolve the matter through dialogue rather than confrontation.
Pakistan’s government has allowed the national team to take part in the T20 World Cup 2026 but has said the side will not play against India in the group-stage match scheduled in Colombo. Pakistan have refused to face co-hosts India in their Group A fixture as a form of protest.
Pakistan, who beat the Netherlands in the tournament opener, stand to lose two points and suffer a major hit to their net run rate if they forfeit the match. India captain Suryakumar Yadav has said his team will travel to Colombo for the fixture.
Sri Lanka Cricket has asked Pakistan to reconsider the boycott, warning it could cause financial losses and affect tourism. Pakistan captain Salman Agha has said the team would consult the government if they were to meet India in a semi-final or final.
