Web desk: The decision to proceed with the Pakistan India clash in the T20 World Cup has reportedly saved the International Cricket Council (ICC) an estimated $174 million in potential losses.
According to Indian media reports, the projected losses were linked to broadcaster revenues, gate money, and sponsorship deals. Soon after the match was reinstated, airfares between Mumbai and Colombo surged sharply, reflecting heightened demand.
Reports indicate that ticket prices on these routes increased by Rs10,000 to Rs60,000. The hospitality sector in Colombo also welcomed the decision, anticipating a boost in hotel bookings due to the high-profile match.
Earlier, several cricket fans had contacted hotels to cancel reservations following Pakistan’s announcement of a boycott. Many fans also sought clarity on refund policies for tickets related to the Pakistan India fixture.
Meanwhile, the Government of Pakistan has officially approved the national team’s participation in the match against India during the T20 World Cup 2026. A government statement confirmed that Pakistan will face India as scheduled on February 15.
Pakistan had previously announced a boycott of the match amid broader concerns. In a related development, the Bangladesh Cricket Board declined to send its team to the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka over security issues. Pakistan supported Bangladesh’s position however, the ICC replaced Bangladesh with Scotland for the 2026 tournament. Pakistan strongly protested the decision.
Read more: T20 World Cup: ICC on back foot, seeks Pakistan consent for India Match
