‘ICC Is the basically Dubai Branch of the BCCI’

The Logo Of ICC and Symbol of BCCI.

Renowned Indian journalist Sharda Ugra has once again commented on the ongoing controversy surrounding the T20 World Cup, claiming that the International Cricket Council (ICC) is largely influenced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). She bluntly remarked that the ICC is nothing more than the “Dubai branch” of the BCCI.

Bangladesh had requested the ICC not to play its matches in India, citing security concerns. The ICC rejected the appeal and eventually excluded Bangladesh from the 2026 edition of the tournament, replacing them with Scotland. Since the announcement, the decision has sparked widespread debate and criticism within the cricketing world. The issue has also taken on political dimensions, as Pakistan is reportedly considering a potential boycott of the World Cup.

In an interview with Indian news outlet The Wire, Ugra said that many people now believe the ICC no longer makes independent decisions. “Everyone knows that the ICC is essentially just the Dubai office of the BCCI. The ICC operates according to what the BCCI wants. We have seen the stance of their executive board. So, I was not surprised by this decision,” she said.

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Although Ugra’s remarks are not new, they have resurfaced prominently in the context of the World Cup controversy. For years, there has been debate over India’s dominance in the ICC’s financial structure. India’s strong position in broadcasting rights, commercial revenue, and the global cricket market has raised questions about whether the BCCI exerts excessive influence over the ICC’s policymaking.

Meanwhile, officials of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have indicated that the national team will only participate in the World Cup if final approval is granted by the Pakistani government. A decision is expected by at least next Monday. If Pakistan withdraws, the ICC may have to reconsider the tournament structure.

Overall, even before the tournament begins, off-field developments have taken center stage. Questions over the ICC’s neutrality, the political stance of participating nations, and regional tensions have collectively placed the world cricket governing body under significant pressure ahead of the World Cup.

crifosports/27January26/AZ