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hosted by India and Sri Lanka and featuring 20 teams, with Bangladesh replaced by Scotland following the former’s unwillingness to travel to India over security concerns.

Cricket’s governing body, the International Cricket Council (ICC) rejected Pakistan’s decision.

“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 per the event schedule,” ICC release said.

“ICC tournaments are built on sporting integrity, competitiveness, consistency and fairness, and selective participation undermines the spirit and sanctity of the competitions.”

The ICC said decision was not in the interest of the game.

“While the ICC respects the roles 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.”

ICC said it expects Pakistan to consider implications of the decision.

“The ICC hopes that 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, which it is itself a member and beneficiary of.”

ICC hopes Pakistan will reconsider the decision.

“It (ICC) expects the PCB to explore a mutually acceptable resolution, which protects the interests of all stakeholders.”