Islamabad, February 3 — Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on the International Cricket Council (ICC), accusing the global governing body of operating under Indian political influence and calling for the formation of a new international cricket organisation.
His remarks come amid rising political and sporting tensions ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to be held from February 7 to March 8 in India and Sri Lanka.
🗣️ Khawaja Asif’s Social Media Statement
Taking to social media, Khawaja Asif questioned the independence of the ICC and urged reforms in global cricket governance.
“A new international organization of cricket is needed to keep the spirit of the gentleman’s game alive,”
Asif wrote, adding that the ICC had become“hostage to Indian political interests in South Asia.”
The Defence Minister’s comments have further intensified the debate around the role of politics in international cricket administration.
🇵🇰 Pakistan to Boycott India Match
Despite clearing its national team to participate in the T20 World Cup, Pakistan has announced it will boycott its match against India, scheduled to be played in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) did not officially disclose the reasons behind the decision.
In response, the ICC stated that such a move was
“not in the interest of the global game or the welfare of fans worldwide, including millions in Pakistan.”
🔄 Bangladesh–Scotland Swap Triggers Controversy
Pakistan’s criticism also follows the ICC’s controversial decision to replace Bangladesh with Scotland for the tournament. Bangladesh had reportedly requested that their matches be shifted outside India, citing security concerns amid escalating political tensions.
Pakistan publicly backed Bangladesh, calling the ICC’s decision selective and reflective of biased governance, further fuelling accusations of unequal treatment among member nations.
🌏 Politics and Cricket: A Long-Standing Divide
India and Pakistan have not played a bilateral cricket series since 2012, with their rivalry largely limited to multi-nation tournaments. Political tensions between the two countries have repeatedly spilled onto the cricket field, most recently during the Asia Cup 2025.
That tournament saw heightened emotions following the Pahalgam terrorist attack, in which 26 people lost their lives, leading to visible protests and strained interactions between players from the two nations.
🔍 Uncertain Road Ahead
With the T20 World Cup just days away, Khawaja Asif’s call for a new global cricket body adds another layer of uncertainty to an already politically charged tournament. While the ICC continues to emphasise unity and the global growth of the sport, criticism from member nations highlights growing concerns over governance, neutrality, and fairness.
As cricket braces for one of its most high-profile events, the challenge remains clear: keeping the game above politics in an increasingly divided landscape.
