The shocking incident has sent shockwaves through the international cricket world, Pakistan The government has officially intervened Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) operations. While confirming participation 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World CupGovernment explicitly bans national team from taking part in high-stakes clash with old rivals Indiascheduled to be held on February 15, 2026 at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo. This unprecedented move of selective participation drew sharp criticism from India’s legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskarwho calls International Cricket Council (ICC) Take decisive action.

Sunil Gavaskar wants ICC to take action after PCB boycotts India matches

Known for his direct and insightful comments, Gavaskar did not mince words when discussing the impact of Pakistan’s selective boycott. Speaking to India Today, Gavaskar stressed that such a late exit, mainly on the eve of a global championship, threatens the very foundation of international sports. He believes it is a manageable logistical hurdle if a team opts out long before the schedule is finalized; however, a last-minute refusal to play in a particular game is a breach of sporting integrity.

He urged the International Criminal Court to intervene, noting that the decision-making process should involve multiple committees to ensure a fair and firm response. Gavaskar said the punishment must be severe enough to act as a deterrent and ensure that no other team considers holding the global event hostage to political contingencies in the future. The Little Master even took a light-hearted jab at the situation, suggesting that just as retired Pakistani cricketers often take U-turns, the board may eventually reverse the decision amid mounting global pressure.

“Of course, I think if you pull out at the last minute, that’s a problem. If you pull out early, it’s a different story entirely. But if you pull out at the last minute on the eve of a match, then yes, I think of course the ICC should step in and take some action. I don’t know what action they will take, but I think there are a lot of other committees involved, so it’s not just one person’s decision. However, it should ensure that no other teams are involved. That is being considered in the future as well.” India Today quoted Gavaskar as saying.

Also read: Salman Agha breaks silence on Pakistan’s decision to boycott 2026 T20 World Cup India match

Strong ICC response and potential sanctions on PCBs

The International Criminal Court issued a rare strong statement expressing deep concern over the move. The governing body stressed that selective participation was difficult to reconcile with the basic premise of world-class sporting events, which is that all qualified nations should compete equally. While the ICC recognized the role of governments on policy matters, it maintained that this specific decision undermined the spirit of the game and ignored the well-being of millions of fans, including those in Pakistan.

“The ICC may take legal action against Pakistan for refusing to play against India, but what will be the consequences of such action, I cannot say. What is certain is that the ICC will be very unhappy with this decision of the Pakistani government.” Gavaskar concluded.

The consequences of PCBs can be catastrophic. Industry insiders said that if the boycott holds, the match will be deemed a forfeit, with two points automatically deducted and a major blow to Pakistan’s net win rate. Apart from the points table, the ICC is reportedly considering strict disciplinary measures. These may include:

• Financial penalties: Withholding a share of ICC revenue distribution (Pakistan holds 5.75% share).
• League restrictions: Stop providing No Objection Certificate (NOC) for overseas players to participate in competitions Pakistan Super League (PSL)which will weaken the commercial value of the alliance.
• Hosting rights: Reassess Pakistan’s ability to host future global events.

The cricket world remains on edge as the February 7 start date approaches. It remains to be seen whether the PCB will bow to international pressure or stick to the government’s mandate, but as Gavaskar pointed out, the sanctity of the World Cup is currently at stake.

Watch also: India captain Ayush Mhatt avoids shaking hands with Pakistan captain during 2026 U19 World Cup match