Tensions between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the International Cricket Council (ICC) have surfaced ahead of the World Cup, with PCB placing three conditions for playing against India.
Let’s break it down simply.
What Are PCB’s 3 Conditions to Play India?
PCB has reportedly informed the ICC that it will participate in the India match only if the following demands are addressed:
1. A Bigger Share of ICC Revenue
PCB wants a larger portion of ICC’s revenue distribution.
Their argument: India–Pakistan matches generate massive global viewership and commercial revenue, so Pakistan deserves a bigger financial share from those earnings.
2. Restart India–Pakistan Bilateral Cricket
PCB is seeking a clear roadmap for resuming bilateral series (Tests, ODIs, T20Is) between the two nations.
The two teams have not played a full bilateral series since 2012. Since then, they have only faced each other in ICC and multi-nation tournaments.
3. Mandatory Post-Match Handshake
PCB wants ICC to strictly enforce post-match handshakes as a gesture of sportsmanship, especially after past instances where players avoided it amid tensions.
Will ICC Agree?
Most likely — no.
Reports suggest that ICC has already shown resistance to these demands. Here’s why:
ICC Cannot Force Bilateral Series
India–Pakistan bilateral cricket depends on decisions taken by both national boards and, importantly, their governments.
ICC does not have the authority to mandate bilateral tours.
Revenue Sharing Is Locked in Long-Term Agreements
ICC revenue distribution is structured through multi-year agreements involving all member nations.
Changing that framework for one board would be complex and highly unlikely.
Handshake Rule Is Symbolic
While sportsmanship is encouraged in international cricket, making it a strict pre-condition for participation in a World Cup match appears impractical.
Current Situation (In Brief)
- PCB and ICC have held discussions.
- ICC is standing firm and wants the tournament to proceed as scheduled.
- PCB is consulting internally, but there is little expectation that ICC will concede.
Bottom Line
- PCB has placed three clear conditions.
- ICC is unlikely to accept them.
- The India–Pakistan situation remains sensitive.
However, ICC’s priority remains ensuring that the World Cup continues without disruption.
– The Team Trendsummary
