T20 World Cup 2026: ICC Rejects Pakistan's Demands, Issues Final Ultimatum; Deals Blow To Bangladesh

New Delhi: Pakistan has suffered another major setback from the International Cricket Council (ICC). Amidst the ongoing controversy surrounding the India-Pakistan match in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, the ICC has clarified its stance on the demands made by Bangladesh and Pakistan. The ICC has clearly stated that Bangladesh will not be penalized in any way for this entire incident and will continue to receive its due share of ICC revenue.

According to officials, the ICC made this decision independently and without pressure from any other board. Even though Bangladesh has been eliminated from the current World Cup, it will not suffer any financial losses.

Was Bangladesh considered for hosting a tournament as compensation?

The ICC also acknowledged that Bangladesh was deprived of hosting the Women's T20 World Cup last year. This tournament was moved from Bangladesh to Dubai due to riots in the country.

Keeping this in mind, the ICC is now considering giving Bangladesh the opportunity to host a major tournament in the next cycle. According to sources, Bangladesh might be given the hosting rights for an ICC event like the Under-19 World Cup, to partially compensate for the previous loss.

Did ICC reject Pakistan's demands?

During the meeting, Bangladesh and Pakistan also demanded that the ICC ask India to play bilateral cricket with Pakistan. However, the ICC clearly rejected this demand. The ICC stated that bilateral series do not fall under its jurisdiction. This is why it does not intervene in such matters, even within the cycle of ICC tournaments like the World Test Championship.

Similarly, a proposal for a triangular series between India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh was also put forward, but it was rejected on the same grounds.

What about the demand for India to tour Bangladesh?

The issue of India touring Bangladesh this year was also raised in the meeting. The ICC clarified that it is not within its authority to compel any country to tour another country. This decision rests entirely with the respective cricket boards and governments.

Did the ICC issue an ultimatum to Pakistan?

Following a lengthy meeting in Lahore, Pakistan did not make an immediate decision regarding the match against India scheduled for February 15. Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi said he wanted to consult with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on the matter.

The ICC has since given Pakistan one day to decide. According to sources, a final decision on the India-Pakistan match could be made at any moment. An official announcement from the ICC is expected later today or by Wednesday morning.

The ICC's biggest concern is the revenue associated with the India-Pakistan match. This match is considered the biggest revenue-generating match in world cricket. If this match does not take place, it will affect not only the ICC but also the annual income of all member boards. Therefore, the ICC wants to maintain the stability and financial balance of the tournament at all costs.