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Agartala, Tripura
Dubai/IBNS: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has strongly criticised Pakistan’s decision to skip its T20 World Cup match against India scheduled for February 15, saying selective participation “defeats the interest of the global game and the welfare of fans worldwide.”
“While the ICC respects the roles of governments in matters of national policy, this decision is not in the interest of the global game or the welfare of fans worldwide, including millions in Pakistan,” the body said in a statement.
The ICC added that it hopes the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) will consider the “significant and long-term implications” for cricket in its own country, as the move could impact the global cricket ecosystem, of which Pakistan is a member and beneficiary.
Pakistan’s decision comes amid persistent bilateral tensions with India and may create a unique scenario if both teams qualify for the semifinals or final.
According to ICC rules, for India to claim the two points for the February 15 fixture without playing, the team must still be represented at the toss.
Earlier, Bangladesh had opted out of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup after the BCCI instructed IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Bangladeshi bowler Mustafizur Rahman, following protests linked to alleged atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh.
The T20 World Cup will begin with the Pakistan-Netherlands match in Sri Lanka, the other host nation.
