In a dramatic twist that has sent shockwaves through world cricket, the ICC has formally asked the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to justify its decision to boycott the high-voltage clash against India at the T20 World Cup on February 15.
The PCB has invoked the Force Majeure clause -- a powerful legal provision that excuses parties from obligations due to extraordinary circumstances beyond their control. ESPNcricinfo reports the PCB cited direct government orders as the basis for its decision, arguing it had no choice but to comply.
What is Force Majeure -- and why it matters now
Force Majeure is usually reserved for extreme events such as wars, natural disasters or political upheaval. Under ICC rules, however, a government directive also qualifies — giving the PCB legal cover, at least on paper.
In this case, Pakistan’s government first posted on X that the team would not take the field, before Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reinforced the stance in cabinet, linking it to solidarity with Bangladesh, who were removed from the tournament.
ICC pushes back
But the ICC is not convinced -- at least not yet.
In a written response, the global governing body has asked the PCB to prove what steps it took to mitigate the situation, a requirement under the Members Participation Agreement (MPA). The ICC also laid out the strict conditions under which Force Majeure can be validly invoked and warned of the sporting, commercial and governance consequences of a boycott.
Crucially, the ICC has reminded the PCB that it could seek material damages if the match is abandoned and, in an extreme scenario, even consider suspension or termination of membership for a serious breach of obligations.
PCB confident --and pointing to precedent
Behind closed doors, the PCB believes it has a strong legal footing. Officials are reportedly pointing to a previous dispute with the BCCI that went before the ICC’s Dispute Resolution Committee. That case stemmed from India’s failure to honour a 2014 MoU, with the Indian government’s refusal to allow bilateral series cited as a key factor — a precedent the PCB feels strengthens its position now.
Talks continue
With the world watching, both sides are locked in intense back-channel talks, involving senior ICC figures Imran Khwaja and Mubashir Usmani. While neither the ICC nor PCB has issued an official statement, the mood is tense -- and the stakes could not be higher.
