ICC – PCB standoff: Indian media livid over Pakistan’s upper hand in decision-making

NEW DELHI/ISLAMABAD: A wave of criticism swept through sections of the Indian media after Pakistan agreed to conditions set by the International Cricket Council (ICC), with commentators calling the development an “insult to India.”

Indian media outlets claimed that Pakistan accepted the ICC’s terms despite being in a weaker position, arguing that world cricket cannot function without Pakistan’s participation. Some commentators went as far as saying that India would ultimately be forced to “shake hands and even hug Pakistan,” regardless of political reluctance.

The coverage further alleged that Pakistan leveraged diplomatic and strategic maneuvering to gain support from Bangladesh, while also referring to Pakistani fast bowler Haris Rauf’s past on-field gesture as part of their criticism.

According to these reports, Pakistan’s agreement with the ICC underscores its central role in global cricket, a reality that critics in India acknowledged reluctantly while expressing frustration over the outcome.

Following negotiations with the ICC, Pakistan formally expressed its willingness to play a match against India, ending months of uncertainty over the high-profile fixture.

SHAHID AFRIDI WELCOMES DECISION

Meanwhile, cricket experts and former players from Pakistan have welcomed the decision by the government to go ahead with the match against India. Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi welcomed the decision to resume matches against India, calling it a positive step for the sport.

In a statement, Afridi said that the passion for cricket had prevailed over politics, adding that the government’s decision had helped preserve the global stability of the game. “Cricket has won,” he said, reiterating that the sport must continue to play its unifying role worldwide.

PAKISTAN CLEARED TO FACE INDIA

After the recent round of negotiations, the Government of Pakistan has granted permission for the national team to face India on February 15, 2026, in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. The approval was given by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif following a detailed briefing by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.

According to an official statement, Naqvi informed the Prime Minister about the outcomes of negotiations involving the PCB, the ICC, and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). The government also reviewed requests submitted by the BCB and other cricketing nations.

Sri Lanka and the United Arab Emirates were among the countries that urged Pakistan to reconsider its earlier stance. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also held a telephone conversation with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who requested an amicable resolution to the impasse.

The Pakistani government reaffirmed its commitment to stand “shoulder to shoulder” with Bangladesh and noted that the decision was taken in the spirit of cricket and for the continuity of the global game. The premier and the nation extended their best wishes to the Men in Green as they prepare for the marquee clash.