In a dramatic turn of events, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has addressed the intense backlash following the board’s decision to reverse its boycott of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 match against India. During a tense press interaction at a PSL event on February 10, 2026, Naqvi attempted to frame the strategic retreat as a principled move rather than a surrender to ICC pressure.
The controversy centers on the high-stakes February 15 fixture in Colombo, which was thrown into jeopardy after Pakistan threatened a boycott in solidarity with Bangladesh, following the BCB’s exclusion from the tournament structure.
“Humne Apne Liye Kuch Nahi Kiya”
When grilled by journalists on whether the PCB had secured any secret concessions or financial benefits from the ICC to end the stalemate, Naqvi gave a viral, candid response.
- The Defense: “Humne apne liye kuch nahi kiya” (I didn’t do anything for myself), Naqvi stated, suggesting that the PCB’s initial stance was purely out of support for neighboring Bangladesh and not for self-gain.
- The Face-Saving Narrative: Analysts suggest this statement is a deliberate effort to protect the board’s image after a major diplomatic “U-turn” that saw Pakistan return to the tournament table without visible changes to the schedule.
Defiance Against ICC Sanctions
Despite the eventual climbdown, Naqvi maintained a defiant tone regarding the ICC’s threat of sanctions and financial penalties.
- The “Field Marshal” Remark: Naqvi brushed off the threat of punitive action by invoking the support of the Pakistani establishment. “Everyone knows our Field Marshal… we are not worried about any sanctions,” he remarked, signaling that the board has the full backing of the country’s top leadership.
- Geopolitical Tensions: The standoff began when the Pakistan government signaled a boycott to protest the exclusion of Bangladesh over security concerns, sparking a week of “shuttle diplomacy” by ICC officials to save the tournament’s most lucrative match.
The India-Pakistan Clash: Final Status
With the boycott threat now effectively withdrawn, the stage is set for the marquee clash.
- Date: February 15, 2026
- Venue: Colombo, Sri Lanka
- Tournament: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 (Group A)
PCB vs. ICC: Key Flashpoints
| Issue | PCB Stance | ICC Response |
| Boycott Threat | Solidarity with Bangladesh’s exclusion. | Warning of severe financial penalties. |
| Sanctions | Unfazed; claims backing of “Field Marshal.” | Urged dialogue to maintain “sporting integrity.” |
| Concessions | Claims a “principled stance” was maintained. | No official change to revenue share or schedule. |