ICC Chief Jay Shah, Pakistan Cricket Team. Image Credits: X
Ahead of the Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, the ICC has taken a major step that could ease growing tensions with Pakistan cricket. After weeks of confusion regarding participation, broadcasting, and commercial issues, the ICC has made a historic announcement.
This seems to be a gesture of reassurance for the Pakistani supporters, broadcasters, and the PCB. With Pakistan threatening to boycott the India clash, the ICC seems keen to protect both revenue and relationships before the tournament begins.
ICC announces historic Urdu commentary for Pakistan matches
For the first time in ICC history, Pakistan matches will be broadcast with full Urdu commentary. This special feed will be produced by the ICC and aired on PTV Home.
It will also be available on digital platforms, including Myco, Tamasha, Tapmad, and ARY Zapp. This decision is being seen as a major goodwill gesture and a stunt to pacify an agitated PCB, which is threatening to boycott the upcoming clash against India.
Until now, Pakistan mostly relied on English feeds or limited local coverage. The ICC’s move directly targets fan engagement.
Warm-up matches involving Pakistan will also be covered on selected platforms. This ensures early visibility and sustained interest.
ICC expands global coverage and tech-heavy viewing
The ICC has also announced massive global broadcast arrangements for the tournament. A total of 55 matches will be played between 7 February and 8 March 2026. India and Sri Lanka will co-host the event.
In India, JioStar will deliver coverage via Star Sports and JioHotstar. Fans will get multiple language options. These include English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and more.
Features like vertical feeds, multi-cam views, and 360-degree angles will be available.
Sri Lanka will be covered by Dialog TV with Sinhala commentary. Other regions like the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa have dedicated partners. Hindi commentary will also be available in several overseas markets.
PCB takes desperate measures
Pakistan’s decision to boycott the India game at the T20 World Cup 2026 has not gone down well with the ICC and broadcasters, who are contemplating actions.
Amidst this, PCB is reportedly considering invoking a “force majeure” clause to defend its stance, citing a directive from the Pakistani government.
"Force majeure" is a term that is used to define an extraordinary and unavoidable event that renders it impossible for a party to fulfill its obligations.
In contracts, the force majeure clause provides for temporary exemption from contractual obligations without penalty in the event of such occurrences.
But reportedly, both the ICC and the BCCI have already rejected this claim. They state that political directives are not considered force majeure in international sporting agreements.
The ICC has also expressed concern over Pakistan’s selective stand, warning that playing some matches while skipping others threatens the integrity of the competition.
For now, this standoff is expected to prevail. While Pakistan insists it is acting under compulsion, the ICC’s position is that World Cups cannot function if member boards pick and choose fixtures.
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