Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Kamran Akmal has launched an attack on the International Cricket Council (ICC), urging the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to stand firm on its decision to boycott the high-profile group match against India in the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Akmal's comments come amid escalating tensions after the Pakistan government instructed the national team to participate in the tournament but refuse to play against arch-rivals India on February 15 in Colombo. The T20 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, is set to begin this Saturday.

Speaking on the YouTube channel ‘Game Plan’, Akmal questioned the ICC's silence during previous controversies where India refused to travel to Pakistan.

“PCB should not back down! Was ICC sleeping when the Asia Cup happened in the hybrid model? Was ICC sleeping when India said it would not play the Champions Trophy in Pakistan and only play on a neutral venue?” Akmal asked.

He further highlighted what he perceives as a double standard, pointing out that Pakistan has traveled to India multiple times despite political tensions.

Akmal also referenced an incident during last year’s Asia Cup in the UAE, alleging that Indian players refused to shake hands with Pakistani players and declined to accept the trophy from ACC president Mohsin Naqvi.

“Things had gotten to such extreme levels... They had disrespected us!” Akmal added.

The Pakistan team has already departed for Sri Lanka to begin their campaign, with their opener scheduled against the Netherlands. Due to the ongoing standoff, Pakistan will play all their matches, including potential knockout fixtures, in Sri Lanka.

In response to the boycott announcement, the ICC released a statement warning of “significant and long-term implications” for Pakistan cricket. The governing body termed the “selective participation” difficult to reconcile with the principles of a global sporting event and urged the PCB to find a “mutually acceptable resolution”.