Pakistan’s move, announced by its government on Sunday, has sent shockwaves through the cricketing fraternity and further deepened tensions between the two rivals.
The decision came in the wake of Bangladesh being replaced by Scotland in the tournament after Dhaka refused to travel to India citing security concerns.
While avoiding direct criticism of Pakistan, BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla made it clear that the Indian board fully endorses the ICC’s position on the matter.
“The ICC has already issued a strong statement, underlining the importance of sportsmanship. We are completely in agreement with the ICC,” Shukla told reporters on Monday.
In response to Pakistan’s announcement, the ICC urged the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to reconsider its stance, cautioning that such a move could have serious long-term consequences for Pakistan cricket.