Pakistani Cricket Legends Condemn ICC Over Alleged Selective Influence, Citing Historical Precedent in World Cup Boycott Justification

In a significant escalation of diplomatic tensions within international cricket, prominent Pakistani former players have issued a formal condemnation of the International Cricket Council (ICC), accusing the governing body of exercising 'selective influence' in its decision-making processes. This criticism emerges as a direct response to the ongoing controversy surrounding India's participation in upcoming World Cup events, with Pakistani figures leveraging historical precedent—specifically referencing India's established 'no-handshake' protocol in past bilateral series—to justify calls for a coordinated boycott. The discourse reflects deepening fractures in cricket's geopolitical landscape, where athletic competition increasingly intersects with national sovereignty and historical grievances. Analysts note that this public challenge to ICC authority by respected sporting veterans represents a strategic attempt to internationalize what has traditionally been a bilateral dispute, potentially setting a precedent for future tournament governance and participation criteria. The situation underscores the fragile equilibrium between sport and politics, with implications for future ICC-hosted events and the broader integrity of international cricket as a unifying global institution.