Pakistan, led by Salman Ali Agha, have received approval from their government to take part in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026, which is set to begin on February 7. However, the team will not play their group-stage match against India on February 15, a decision that is expected to trigger financial losses.
Pakistan have not revealed the reason behind their decision. The issue began after the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) refused to send its team to India for the T20 World Cup matches. As a result, the ICC replaced Bangladesh with Scotland. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi said that Bangladesh were treated “unfairly.”
ICC Warns PCB Over Skipping India Match in T20 World Cup
The International Cricket Council has issued a warning to the Pakistan Cricket Board over its decision. The ICC stated that refusing to play the match would have serious consequences beyond just one fixture.
According to the ICC, the move could harm the wider “global cricket ecosystem.” The concern is about money and the heavy financial losses such a decision could trigger. Notably, the board reminded the PCB that it is part of the global system and also benefits from it.
“The ICC hopes that the PCB will consider the significant and long-term implications for cricket in its own country as this is likely to impact the global cricket ecosystem, which it is itself a member and beneficiary of.”
India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026 Match Worth Rs 4500 Crore
An India vs Pakistan T20 match is the biggest money-maker in world cricket. A single game is valued at USD 500 million (Rs 4500 crore) after accounting for TV rights, advertising, sponsorships, and ticket sales, reported NDTV.
No other cricket match comes close to producing this level of revenue. During this clash, TV channels charge Rs 25-40 lakh for a 10-second advertisement. Broadcasters would suffer the biggest loss if the match does not take place.
They expect to earn around Rs 300 crore from advertising alone from this one game. Broadcasters pay huge sums for guaranteed marquee fixtures, and losing the biggest match breaks that value. JioStar has already approached the ICC seeking a refund due to the expected financial hit.
When broadcasters lose money, the ICC earns less from the tournament. Each World Cup match is internally valued at around Rs 138.7 crore, and removing the India-Pakistan game does not just hurt one fixture but shakes the entire financial structure of the tournament.
Pakistan Face Heavy Financial Loss From Skipping India Clash
Pakistan are set to take the biggest hit if the match does not go ahead. Both India and Pakistan could lose around Rs 200 crore in direct and indirect revenue. While India can manage that loss, it would be a major blow for Pakistan.
The PCB earns about USD 34.51 million every year from the ICC, but that income depends on playing all scheduled matches. Insurance will not cover the loss, as a voluntary withdrawal is not considered an “unavoidable reason.” The PCB could face funding cuts, heavy fines, and legal action from broadcasters.
The damage may also stretch into the future. Broadcasters could see Pakistan matches as risky and pay less for rights going forward, while sponsors may stay away if they fear cancellations.
Thousands of fans have booked flights and hotels for the game and could lose their money with no refunds. Pakistan may feel they are making a point, but skipping this match could cost them far more than expected in the long run.
