Pakistan, Feb 05 : Pakistan is reportedly exploring the possibility of invoking the “force majeure” clause to shield itself from potential sanctions by the International Cricket Council (ICC) if it withdraws from its T20 World Cup 2026 fixture against India. The high profile encounter is scheduled for February 15 in Sri Lanka.
According to a report by The Indian Express, a boycott could result in India being awarded two points, while the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) may face financial repercussions. The clause typically applies to unforeseen circumstances that prevent contractual obligations from being fulfilled, and officials are said to be examining whether the situation qualifies as “extraordinary.”
Sources indicated that the PCB might cite a social media message from the Pakistan government calling for a boycott, arguing that the board was effectively directed to follow the government’s stance. One official described the move as a “last resort,” suggesting there were limited grounds available to justify skipping the match.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), however, reportedly views the argument as unconvincing. A board source pointed out that Pakistan had recently competed against India in the Under-19 World Cup despite the boycott message emerging the same day. The source also noted the close institutional ties between Pakistan’s government and cricket administration.
The official further accused certain cricket boards of allowing political considerations to influence sporting commitments, emphasizing that India had repeatedly assured full security for visiting teams. There has also been a longstanding arrangement for India and Pakistan to meet at neutral venues during ICC tournaments, making a withdrawal difficult to defend, the source added.
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reinforced the country’s position on Wednesday, telling the federal cabinet that Islamabad had taken a “clear stand” not to participate in the marquee clash.
The unfolding dispute has raised fresh uncertainty around one of cricket’s most anticipated rivalries, with tournament organizers yet to clarify the potential consequences should the standoff persist.