ISLAMABAD: As the countdown to the ICC T20 World Cup intensifies, controversy has erupted right at the outset after the ICC and the organisers in India unveiled an official ticketing poster conspicuously missing the image of Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha.
The promotional artwork, released on Thursday, prominently features the captains of India and Sri Lanka alongside those of England, Australia and South Africa. Yet, in a move that has raised eyebrows across the cricketing world, the portrait of Pakistan’s captain representing one of the most followed and successful cricket nations was nowhere to be seen.
The omission is being widely viewed as another instance of India’s controlled ICC’s growing bias in cricket-related matters, especially at a time when global anticipation for the mega event is building. Fans, analysts, and cricket officials have questioned how a World Cup promotional poster could exclude the leader of a team that commands one of the largest fan bases and is a former champion of the format.
The episode has sparked debate on social media, with many calling it an avoidable controversy that undermines the spirit of global sportsmanship the World Cup is meant to promote. As preparations continue and teams gear up for the showpiece event, the organisers may now find themselves under pressure to offer an explanation or a correction to restore balance and fairness in the promotional campaign.
Meanwhile, the ICC announced the opening of ticket sales for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, pricing entry-level tickets at historic lows to drive accessibility for the pinnacle event. Sales will begin at 18h45 IST with prices starting at 100 Indian Rupees (approximately $1.11) at some venues in India and LKR1000 (approximately $3.26) in Sri Lanka.
The excitement begins with the tournament opener between Pakistan and the Netherlands in Colombo, followed by a clash of the West Indies and Bangladesh in Kolkata, capped by a showdown between India and the USA in Mumbai.
The ICC has reduced one of the primary entry barriers for fans to experience the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup by making the tickets highly affordable in Phase I. With pricing starting from 100 Indian Rupees in India and LKR1000 in Sri Lanka and more than 2 million tickets going on sale, the ICC aspires to democratize the in-stadia experience of ICC events.
ICC CEO, Sanjog Gupta, said: “Phase I of ticket sales is an important milestone in our journey towards delivering the most accessible and global ICC event ever staged. Our vision for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is clear: every fan, regardless of background, geography or financial means, should have the chance to access an in-stadia experience of world-class marquee cricket.
“With tickets starting from just 100 and LKR1000, we are putting affordability at the centre of our strategy. This is about opening the gates wide and inviting millions to be part of a global celebration of cricket, not as spectators from afar, but as active participants in the energy, emotion and magic that only a stadium can offer.
“The 2026 edition, featuring 20 teams and 55 matches, will be the most ambitious and inclusive T20 World Cup in history. We firmly believe it will set a new benchmark not only for competitive excellence but for fan experience and access. Our commitment is to bring the world closer to the game and to ensure this becomes a tournament remembered for both its cricketing brilliance and its connection with the fans we serve.”
Devajit Saikia, Honorary Secretary, BCCI said: “With tickets starting as low as 100, the excitement around the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is multiplied manifold. We are committed to creating a world-class match-day experience that reflects India’s passion for the sport, modern facilities, smooth logistics, and stadiums buzzing with energy.
“This tournament is an opportunity for fans to come together and celebrate cricket in its most electrifying format. We have worked closely with all stakeholders to ensure accessibility, comfort, and an atmosphere worthy of a global event. We warmly welcome fans from across India and around the globe to witness thrilling action and create lifelong memories.”
