Sources reveal that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) initially notified the ICC verbally of its decision to withdraw from the Pakistan leg of the upcoming tournament.
Now, the ICC is requesting a formal written explanation from India, which could give Pakistan grounds to demand substantial evidence to justify India’s withdrawal.
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If India’s justification is found lacking, the ICC may compel the Indian team to participate in the tournament, according to sources.
Financial consequences are significant, with the ICC potentially facing losses up to $500 million from broadcast rights, advertising, and sponsorships. The absence of India-Pakistan matches alone could result in a $100 million loss for the Indian board.
The ICC is set to review India’s written explanation before making a final decision.