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Viral claim of ICC banning Pakistan cricket for a year is false
MUMBAI: When social media tried to bowl a googly, the facts stood firm at the crease. A media release claiming that the International Cricket Council (ICC) has banned the Pakistan cricket team for one year has gone viral online, racking up close to nine lakh views and sparking heated debate. The alleged statement also claimed that the Pakistan Super League (PSL) would be suspended for a year and Pakistan’s share of ICC revenue slashed to 2.25 per cent.
The timing fuelled the frenzy. The claim surfaced amid reports suggesting Pakistan’s reluctance to play India at the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, giving the rumour just enough context to appear credible at first glance.
However, a closer look reveals the story does not pass the sniff test.
There is no official confirmation, announcement or credible media report indicating that the ICC has imposed any ban on Pakistan cricket. A review of the ICC’s official website shows no such decision or disciplinary action. Instead, the most recent ICC media release, dated 1 February, merely notes that the global body has “taken cognisance” of reports that the Pakistan government has advised its team to selectively participate in the tournament.
Crucially, the ICC statement adds that an official communication from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is still awaited. It also cautions that any such move could have “significant and long-term implications” for Pakistan cricket and the wider global cricket ecosystem. Nowhere does it mention a ban, suspension or financial penalty.
Tracing the origin of the viral post leads to an altered image shared on social media, including one version circulated via a post attributed to DD Sports. A comparison between the viral visual and the original ICC release shows clear signs of manipulation. The fonts do not match, the language has been altered, and the viral version carries a signature attributed to ICC chair Jay Shah, a feature absent from genuine ICC releases.
Even the presence of the DD Sports logo on the viral image points to misuse rather than authenticity.
In short, the claim that the ICC has banned Pakistan cricket for a year is fabricated. The episode is a reminder that in the age of instant virality, not every statement that looks official has actually cleared the third umpire.
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
