Pakistan calls for new global cricket body, accuses ICC of serving Indian political interests

Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Tuesday, February 3, called for the formation of a new global cricket governing body, stating that the International Cricket Council (ICC) has become hostage to Indian political interests. His remarks come amid a fresh row between the two neighbours ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026.

Earlier this week, the Pakistan government announced that it had cleared its national men’s team to participate in the upcoming World Cup, scheduled to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7. However, it also stated that the national team would boycott its fixture against India on February 15, without specifying the reason behind the decision.

In response, the ICC said that Pakistan’s move was not in the best interests of the global game or the welfare of cricket fans worldwide, including the millions of supporters in Pakistan.

“A new international organization of cricket is needed to keep the spirit of the gentleman’s game alive. ICC has become hostage to Indian political interests in South Asia,” Asif wrote on X.