The International Cricket Council (ICC) released a high-level statement today expressing disappointment over the Pakistan government's decision to bar its team from the February 15 clash against India in Colombo. The ICC emphasized that "selective participation" undermines the integrity of a global tournament and violates the fundamental agreement that all qualified teams must compete per the schedule.

While Pakistan has been cleared to play all other matches in the T20 World Cup, this specific forfeit will be recorded as a loss for Pakistan, granting India two automatic points. Beyond the points table, the ICC is reportedly weighing heavy financial sanctions against the PCB to compensate for an estimated $50 million loss in broadcast and advertising revenue.

Captain Salman Ali Agha addressed the media this morning in Colombo, stating that while the players are disappointed to miss the high-octane rivalry, they are strictly following government orders. The team is now focusing entirely on their opening group match against the Netherlands this Saturday, as they now have zero margin for error to reach the semi-finals.