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With Pakistan yet to reverse its stand, the ICC may take tough action including a complete cricket ban, freezing PSL participation, and stopping annual funding, sources indicate.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) is considering a series of strong measures against Pakistan if the country does not revise its decision within the next 48 hours, according to sources familiar with the matter. The warning comes amid rising tension between cricket administration and political positions taken by Pakistan.
ICC Chairman Jay Shah is said to have clearly outlined three possible actions that could be enforced if Pakistan continues its rigid stance. These steps are being described as some of the harshest penalties in modern cricket governance.
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The first option under discussion is a complete suspension of Pakistan from international cricket. This would mean Pakistan being barred from all ICC events and bilateral series, similar to the ban imposed on South Africa during the apartheid era in the 1970s.
The second measure could directly impact the Pakistan Super League (PSL). The ICC may stop foreign players from participating in the league by refusing to issue No Objection Certificates (NOCs). Such a move would severely weaken the PSL, which relies heavily on overseas cricketers for its commercial and competitive value.
The third and most damaging step would be a financial freeze. Pakistan currently receives around 34.5 million US dollars annually (approximately ₹280 crore) from the ICC. Sources say this entire amount could be withheld, putting major strain on Pakistan’s cricketing structure.
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Analysts have pointed out the contrast between India and Pakistan’s approach. Despite political tensions, the Indian cricket team travelled to Pakistan for the 2025 Asia Cup, prioritising the sport over geopolitics. Pakistan, however, is now being accused of mixing politics with cricket, leading to unnecessary uncertainty.
A similar situation had earlier unfolded with Bangladesh, which had taken a rigid stand in the past. As a result, Bangladesh was removed from a tournament and Scotland was given its place. Experts warn that Pakistan could face the same outcome if it fails to turn up for the February 15 match, making its exit from the tournament a real possibility.
