The issue arose on February 1, when the Government of Pakistan announced that while it would allow the national team to participate in the T20 World Cup, it would not take the field against India. The government directive put the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in direct conflict with ICC playing conditions, which require full participation once a team qualifies for an event.
Reacting to the ICC’s warning of severe consequences for selective participation, Mani noted that the governing body lacks authority to punish Pakistan in this case, as the decision is dictated by the government. He referenced India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy as a similar precedent.
“There can’t be any sanctions against Pakistan if it follows the government’s instructions. That was the basis on which India refused to play its 2025 Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan. You can’t have double standards. Unfortunately, instead of dealing with the problem, the ICC just stood there as a bystander,” Mani told Sportstar.
Mani also criticised the ICC’s handling of the situation, accusing it of failing to address government interference in cricket. He warned that such episodes could set a precedent for political involvement in sporting decisions, especially when board officials hold government positions. With PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi serving as a government minister, Mani highlighted the blurred lines between cricket administration and state policy.
“You left the door open for any country to get its government involved, especially knowing that the chairman of the PCB is a serving minister of the government,” he added.
Meanwhile, the ICC has maintained its stance against Pakistan’s selective participation. While the board has yet to receive official communication from the PCB, it stated that boycotting matches undermines the integrity of global tournaments and could have long-term consequences for both the PCB and international cricket.
The India-Pakistan fixture remains the most lucrative match in any ICC event, attracting massive global viewership and sponsorship. A walkover in Colombo would award India full points but could reportedly cost broadcasters hundreds of crores in advertising revenue and disappoint fans worldwide.
Pakistan has continued its Group A campaign and is scheduled to play its remaining matches in Colombo, beginning against the Netherlands on February 7.
