Former BCCI president urges ICC to ban Pakistan

Former BCCI chief Anurag Thakur has urged the International Cricket Council to act firmly following Pakistan’s refusal to face India in the group phase of the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.

Pakistan have made their position clear, but India will move ahead with preparations as planned. The team will fly to Colombo, attend training, and complete press duties while awaiting the match referee’s decision.

Addressing the matter, Anurag Thakur highlighted India’s sustained involvement in staging marquee global events and its significant role in strengthening international cricket, both in governance and revenue generation.

“The ICC must respond decisively. India has consistently delivered top-class infrastructure in every tournament,” Anurag Thakur said.

He further pointed to India’s importance in sustaining the global game, noting that the country plays a major part in supporting international cricket, both economically and on the field. On Pakistan’s decision to stay away, Anurag Thakur said the International Cricket Council must exercise its mandate and take firm action against the Pakistan Cricket Board.

“If a team chooses not to come to India and hides behind excuses or political motives, decisive action should be taken against them,” he added.

“Their funding should be stopped, and they should be banned from competing in international cricket,” he mentioned.

An official statement from Pakistan’s government confirmed participation in the tournament, while opting out of the February 15 group match against India in Colombo. The stance mirrors Bangladesh’s earlier withdrawal, which saw Scotland replace them after the BCB flagged security issues following Mustafizur Rahman’s IPL exclusion.