The decision came in a show of solidarity with Bangladesh, which was withdrawn after their position to change venues, on security grounds, was rejected by the International Cricket Council (ICC) and replaced by Scotland. However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has not submitted an official letter to the ICC regarding their selective participation.
Pakistan Cricket Board needs to reconsider
After all the drama, the Pakistan Cricket Board will reportedly consult with their national government to reconsider their participation decision against India. As Sri Lanka Cricket has sent an official email to the PCB stating that if the match between India and Pakistan scheduled for February 15 at the R Premedasa Stadium in Colombo does not take place, Sri Lanka Cricket will have to suffer a loss.
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This has damaged the structure and reputation of the tournament in the island country that is hosting the showcase alongside India. According to the recent developments, Naqvi assured Shammi Silva, according to the source, that he would contact the government and get back to him.
A source privy to the developments said on Saturday (as quoted by PTI), “It is clear that Pakistan has always had very close and friendly ties with Sri Lanka at the government to government and cricket level. So, the post of their administration cannot be simply ignored.”
Mohsin Naqvi talks to the Pakistani government
The source said reports that PCB rejected SLC’s request were untrue. The source said: “Mohsin Naqvi has been contacted directly by Shammi Silva, chairman of the Sri Lankan board, and was reminded that Sri Lanka needs Pakistan to perform for them at this time because without matches between Pakistan and India, the Sri Lankan board would lose additional income from gate fees, catering sales etc.”
The source pointed out that when some players requested to return home from a tour of Pakistan due to security concerns, the Sri Lankan government had given Pakistan strong support last November. This has been one of the reasons for the reconsideration of PCB.
Pakistan Cricket Board and Sri Lanka have good relations
The source concluded and said, “PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has not even been to the country since yesterday and has to return today. He will bring the email to the notice of the Prime Minister about ending the boycott of the match against India and then a decision on the matter would be taken on Monday. Not only the Sri Lankan board but the government directed the players to complete the white ball tour.”
India vs Pakistan is the most watched match of all major ICC events. The ICC and the hosts generate twice as much revenue from this match as from any other match. So there will be a huge loss if the match does not take place. The Pakistan Cricket Board could face serious sanctions and fines if they stick to their stand of not playing against India.
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