No thaw yet but cautious optimism over Pakistan's stance on India game

There has been no tangible resolution five days after the Pakistan government announced a boycott of the India game in the T20 World Cup, but developments over the last 24 hours may provide hope of a potential thaw. World cricket managers are cautiously optimistic that Pakistan may relent from its stance.

Back-channel talks between officials of the International Cricket Council (ICC) and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) are believed to be underway to resolve the issue before the scheduled match on February 15 in Colombo. ICC Deputy Chair Imran Khwaja is involved.

Efforts are focused on providing the PCB with an honorable exit to reverse its extreme position. Simultaneously, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) chairman Shammi Silva has written to the PCB, independent of the ICC, highlighting the significant financial losses Sri Lanka would incur from a boycott, including impacts on tourism. The SLC reminded the PCB of its past support during Pakistan's periods of international isolation.

However, relations between the boards have been strained. Recently, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), under PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi, denied Sri Lanka Cricket a key finance committee position, awarding roles instead to the UAE and Bangladesh boards.

Strong persuasion may be needed. Pakistan's Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, reiterated 24 hours ago that Pakistan would not play India in solidarity with Bangladesh, whose request to relocate games from India was rejected by the ICC.

Whether Pakistan will backtrack remains uncertain, but ICC sources indicate serious efforts are ongoing. ICC chair Jay Shah and CEO Sanjog Gupta have left Milan and are expected in Mumbai for India's opening World Cup game against the US on Saturday. Greater clarity may emerge by then.