India-Pakistan Match Boycott Could Result in ₹2200 Crore Loss
The T20 World Cup is set to begin on 7 February. Ahead of the tournament, Pakistan has decided to boycott its match against India. A major report has emerged highlighting the financial impact of this decision on all stakeholders. According to estimates, an India vs Pakistan match in any ICC tournament generates nearly $25 billion USD (over ₹2200 crore) in revenue. The absence of this high-profile clash in the upcoming T20 World Cup could lead to significant financial losses.
India vs Pakistan Matches Occur Only in Multi-Nation Tournaments
Due to strained political relations, India and Pakistan only face each other in multi-nation tournaments. However, the excitement surrounding this fixture is so intense that the ICC often places both teams in the same group to maximize viewership and revenue. Broadcasters benefit heavily from these matches. If the India vs Pakistan match scheduled for 15 February does not take place, stakeholders may suffer substantial losses.
Indian Broadcaster Could Face Huge Financial Loss
The Pakistan government has announced its decision to boycott the India vs Pakistan match scheduled to be played in Colombo on 15 February. If Pakistan sticks to this decision, it could lose millions of dollars in revenue. In the event of a no-match scenario, the ICC’s revenue pool and Indian media broadcaster JioStar would also face major financial setbacks.
JioStar is already attempting to renegotiate its $3 billion deal with the ICC. The host broadcaster could lose approximately ₹200–250 crore in advertising revenue from this single match. During India vs Pakistan games, a 10-second advertisement slot is priced at nearly ₹40 lakh.
ICC May Impose Fine on PCB
If Pakistan boycotts the match, India would receive full points due to a walkover. However, the ICC has full authority to impose a financial penalty on the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Former ICC and PCB communications head Sami-ul-Hasan Burney highlighted the seriousness of the financial consequences, stating that the cost of a single India vs Pakistan match is nearly $25 billion, covering all aspects beyond broadcasting.
Pakistan’s annual cricket revenue stands at approximately $355 million, and any ICC fine could significantly damage Pakistan cricket. In extreme cases, such penalties could push the PCB towards financial collapse.