ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Cricket Board on Saturday dismissed Indian media reports claiming it had approached the International Cricket Council over skipping its match against India at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, calling the claims baseless.
A PCB spokesperson said the board had not initiated any contact with the ICC regarding a boycott of the India fixture, rejecting assertions circulating in sections of Indian media.
The spokesperson specifically denied claims attributed to Indian sports journalist Vikrant Gupta, saying the reports were “fabricated” and urged patience, adding that clarity would emerge on who had actually approached whom.
Earlier, media reports suggested the ICC had written to PCB following Pakistan’s announcement that it would participate in the tournament but would not play India. PCB sources said the board responded only after receiving communication from the ICC.
According to officials, the ICC has also reached out to other cricket boards in an effort to address the issue.
Sources said Pakistan’s decision not to play India on February 15 stems from multiple factors, including concerns over perceived inconsistent treatment by the ICC in regional matters. Islamabad has also signaled solidarity with Bangladesh following recent tournament-related developments.
PCB reiterated that it remains committed to participating in the World Cup, while reserving its position on the India match.
