PCB’s Proposals Face a Straight No from ICC
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly faced a firm rejection after pushing multiple proposals involving India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. According to senior journalist Vikrant Gupta, the PCB attempted to bring several conditions to the table, hoping to reshape upcoming international commitments and series formats.
Bilateral Series Demand Turned Down
One of the key demands from the PCB was a bilateral series between India and Pakistan. Given the long-standing political and administrative sensitivities between the two nations, this proposal was always expected to face resistance. As anticipated, the International Cricket Council made it clear that bilateral series decisions do not fall under its authority.
Tri-Series Idea Also Rejected
The PCB also floated the idea of a tri-series involving India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, positioning it as a competitive and commercially attractive option. However, the ICC once again rejected the proposal, reiterating that organizing bilateral or multi-nation series outside ICC tournaments is not within its jurisdiction.
India Tour of Bangladesh Hits a Wall
Adding to the list, the PCB reportedly wanted India to tour Bangladesh later this year as part of a broader scheduling plan. This suggestion too was turned down, with the ICC maintaining a consistent stand that such tours are to be mutually decided by the respective cricket boards, not enforced by the global body.
ICC Draws a Clear Line
In response to all three requests, the International Cricket Council clearly stated that none of these matters fall under its domain. The message was unambiguous — bilateral series, tri-series, and tour agreements are the responsibility of individual boards, not the ICC.
Final Buzz
With all three proposals rejected, the PCB finds itself back to square one. The episode underlines a harsh reality in international cricket governance: the ICC governs global tournaments, not bilateral diplomacy. For now, India-Pakistan cricket outside ICC events remains firmly off the table.
