ICC Faces Backlash After Excluding Pakistan From T20 World Cup 2026 Ticket Poster

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is facing renewed criticism after Pakistan was excluded from the official ticket announcement poster for the T20 World Cup 2026. The global tournament is scheduled to begin in February next year, jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka, yet the promotional material failed to include a single Pakistani cricketer — a decision that has sparked frustration among players and fans alike.

Sources within cricket circles suggest that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) may have exercised influence over the release of the promotional artwork, which featured the captains of India, Sri Lanka, South Africa, Australia and England. The omission of Pakistan’s captain, Salman Ali Agha, has been widely interpreted as a slight, especially given Pakistan’s consistent presence and competitiveness in global ICC events.

The absence comes at a time when Pakistan remains one of the most followed cricketing nations in the world, known for producing top-tier talent and delivering memorable performances in major tournaments. Fans expressed their disapproval across social media platforms, arguing that the exclusion reflects a pattern of disregard for Pakistan’s contributions to international cricket.

Current and former players also voiced concern, with many noting that global promotional campaigns should represent all participating nations fairly. Critics argue that the ICC, as the governing body of international cricket, carries a responsibility to maintain neutrality, particularly in its marketing and outreach efforts.

The decision has also reignited ongoing conversations about the perceived imbalance of influence within the ICC’s administrative structure. Analysts point out that while India is the sport’s largest commercial market, the governing body must ensure equal visibility and recognition for all teams to maintain the integrity of the global game.

Despite the controversy, Pakistan’s preparation for the tournament continues. The team is expected to enter the T20 World Cup as a strong contender, backed by a dedicated fan base and a history of standout performances on the world stage. Many supporters believe that no promotional oversight can diminish Pakistan’s potential impact once the competition begins.

As the tournament approaches, the ICC is likely to face increasing pressure to address concerns of neutrality and transparency. For now, the exclusion has added an unnecessary layer of tension ahead of one of cricket’s most anticipated events.