PCB Skips PSL Media Rights in India as Tournament Clashes With IPL 2026

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided not to sell the PSL’s broadcast and media rights in India for the upcoming 11th season, according to Geo News. The PSL will run from March 26 to May 3, which will clash directly with the IPL season, scheduled from March 26 to May 31. The PSL could see a bit of a growth this time around, with the star-power also increasing.

Recently, two more teams were added to the tournament, where Sialkot Stallionz signed ex-Australia skipper Steve Smith. A host of foreign coaches too have joined the PSL including Tim Paine, and Jason Gillespie. Now, the next step is the retention by all the teams by Feb 6, and thereafter the PSL auction will take place on Feb 11 for the very first time.

PCB skips PSL media rights in India amid IPL clash and World Cup tensions

Another decision taken by the PCB is that they will not play India in the T20 World Cup match on February 15, following instructions from the government. After this, it is still unclear whether the match will take place or not, though the ICC has already released a strong statement on the issue.

“The ICC notes the statement made by the government of Pakistan regarding the decision to instruct its national team to selectively participate in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. While the ICC awaits official communication from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), this position of selective participation is difficult to reconcile with the fundamental premise of a global sporting event, where all qualified teams are expected to compete on equal terms as per the event schedule.”

“ICC tournaments are built on sporting integrity, competitiveness, consistency and fairness, and selective participation undermines the spirit and sanctity of the competition. While the ICC respects the role of governments in matters of national policy, this decision is not in the interest of the global game or the welfare of fans worldwide, including millions in Pakistan”, the ICC added.

“The ICC hopes the PCB will consider the significant and long-term implications for cricket in its own country, as this is likely to impact the global cricket ecosystem, of which it is itself a member and beneficiary. The ICC’s priority remains the successful delivery of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, which should also be the responsibility of all its members, including the PCB. It expects the PCB to explore a mutually acceptable resolution that protects the interests of all stakeholders,” the ICC said.

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by Dwijesh February 3, 2026