ICC threatens Pakistan with sanctions amid T20 World Cup tensions

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is reportedly displeased with recent remarks made by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi in support of Bangladesh and has warned of possible sanctions if Pakistan withdraws from the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Sources indicate that the ICC is closely monitoring Pakistan’s stance and may take strict action if the team chooses not to participate in the tournament, similar to Bangladesh’s withdrawal. Potential sanctions could include a suspension of all bilateral series involving Pakistan, denial of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for overseas players wishing to feature in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), and Pakistan’s exclusion from the Asia Cup.

According to sources, the ICC has made it clear that a decision by Pakistan to skip the T20 World Cup would trigger these punitive measures, effectively isolating the country from major international cricketing events and collaborations.

Naqvi had earlier criticised the ICC for what he described as “double standards,” arguing that Bangladesh had been treated unfairly. He said Pakistan’s final decision on participating in the World Cup would be taken at the highest level of government, once Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif returns from an overseas visit. He maintained that Bangladesh, as a full ICC member, deserves equal consideration and should not be subjected to unequal treatment.

The PCB has also urged the ICC to explore a hybrid hosting model for Bangladesh, similar to the arrangement extended to Pakistan, which allows Pakistan to play its World Cup matches at a neutral venue in Colombo. Naqvi emphasised that if flexibility has been shown to certain countries, the same approach should apply to Bangladesh, adding that no single nation should dictate terms to another within international cricket.