KARACHI: Cricket fans may be in for a disappointment, as reports suggest that arch-rivals Pakistan and India are unlikely to face each other in the group stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
According to Indian media reports, the International Cricket Council (ICC) is considering placing the two teams in separate groups. The move is reportedly influenced by lobbying from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), aiming to avoid an early face-off between the two sides.
The Indian cricket authorities are actively working to prevent Pakistan and India from being drawn into the same group in upcoming ICC events. They plan to raise this issue at the annual ICC meeting, seeking a change in the tournament's grouping format. This underscores the growing political and logistical complexities influencing international cricket decisions.
A match between India and Pakistan is more than just a game it's a global event, set fire to immense passion across both nations. With bilateral series halted since 2013 these thrilling encounters are now exclusive to ICC tournaments or the Asia Cup. Historically the teams were often grouped together to ensure multiple high-stakes matches and maximize ICC revenue.
This potential change has roots in India's refusal to play the Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan leading to a 'fusion formula' for neutral venues. Recent Pakistan-India tensions have further complicated matters. The BCCI is expected to propose separating the teams at the July 17-20 ICC conference in Singapore.
Fans are frustrated by the prospect of a World Cup without this key group stage fixture. While a knockout stage clash is possible, it's not guaranteed. The final decision rests with the ICC Executive Council marking the first conference under new chairman Jay Shah. This choice reflects how political considerations are increasingly impacting the sport's future.
