The Pakistan Cricket Board is facing a major decision ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026. Boycotting the match against India could cost the PCB millions of rupees and result in legal action.

Even before the start of the 2026 T20 World Cup, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) faces a major crisis. If Pakistan boycotts the match against India, it could face a high financial cost. According to media reports, withdrawing from just one match could cost Pakistan approximately ₹348 crore.

In fact, the India-Pakistan match is considered the highest-grossing match in a major tournament like the T20 World Cup. Broadcasters, sponsors, and advertising companies earn significant sums from this match. If Pakistan refuses to play in this match, the broadcasting company can pursue legal recourse and seek compensation from the Pakistan Cricket Board.

When will the decision be taken on the boycott?

Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has clarified that discussions are ongoing with the government on this issue. He stated that all options were discussed in a meeting with Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif. A final decision could be made by Friday or Monday. However, the PCB is already aware that any drastic action could create problems for it.

The Pakistani media suggests possible options.

According to Pakistani media reports, the PCB is considering several options. These include boycotting the entire tournament, withdrawing from the match against India, wearing black armbands in all matches, or attributing every victory to Bangladesh in the tournament. However, all these options carry clear risks.

What will happen if only the match against India is left?

Even if Pakistan simply skips the February 15 match against India, it won't receive any relief. According to reports, the broadcaster could claim approximately $38 million, or approximately ₹348 crore (approximately ₹348 crore). This amount could be sought to compensate for lost advertising, sponsorship, and brand value.

Moreover, under the agreement with the ICC, this amount can be deducted from Pakistan's annual revenue. This could further weaken Pakistan cricket, which is already grappling with financial difficulties.

Withdrawing from the entire tournament is even more dangerous.

If Pakistan abandons the entire T20 World Cup, it could face severe sanctions from the ICC, including exclusion from future tournaments, suspension of revenue sharing, and legal action.

Overall, this decision is not an easy one for Pakistan. On one hand, there is political and diplomatic pressure, and on the other, the fear of losing millions of rupees. Whatever decision the PCB takes in the coming days will impact not only this World Cup but also the future of Pakistani cricket.