Former Indian Premier League (IPL) commissioner Lalit Modi has ignited a controversy by criticizing the International Cricket Council (ICC) over the high ticket prices for the much-anticipated T20 World Cup match between India and Pakistan.
In a recent post on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, Modi expressed his outrage upon discovering that tickets for the Diamond Club at the upcoming event are being sold for an astonishing $20,000 each. This marquee match, set to take place on June 9 in New York, is part of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States and the West Indies from June 1 to June 29.
Modi didn't hold back in his criticism, accusing the ICC of prioritizing profit over the spirit of the game. He argued that the World Cup should aim to expand the reach of cricket and engage fans rather than exploit them with exorbitant ticket prices. He went as far as to label the ICC as the “International Council of Crooks,” condemning their pricing strategy as contrary to the essence of cricket.
The India-Pakistan match is always a major draw due to the intense rivalry between the two teams. This particular clash has generated immense excitement, reminiscent of their World Cup encounter in Ahmedabad, where fans went into a frenzy trying to secure tickets.
This isn't the first time Modi has voiced his opinions on cricket administration. He has previously lauded the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for its management of the IPL, calling it the world's premier sports league. Despite being banned for life by the BCCI in 2013 due to allegations of indiscipline and misconduct, Modi continues to be an outspoken figure in cricketing circles.
As of now, the ICC has not issued any official response to Modi's allegations.
The historical rivalry between India and Pakistan adds an extra layer of excitement to this matchup, making it one of the most eagerly awaited games of the tournament. Their encounters are known for their high stakes and electrifying atmosphere, drawing massive global viewership.
India and Pakistan have faced each other seven times in ICC events, creating unforgettable moments in cricket history. These include a thrilling final in the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 and numerous other high-octane clashes. The most recent meeting was at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in 2022, where India edged out Pakistan in a nail-biting finish.
The high ticket prices for the June 9 match in New York have sparked a debate about the commercialization of cricket and the accessibility of the sport for its fans. As the cricketing world gears up for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, Modi’s remarks have brought attention to an issue that resonates with many cricket enthusiasts around the globe.
While the ICC's silence on the matter persists, the conversation about ticket pricing and the true spirit of cricket is likely to continue, especially with such a high-profile match on the horizon. Fans and critics alike will be watching closely to see how the situation unfolds as the tournament approaches.