Overview

• Writing in The Times, the former England captain calls for transparent, pre-announced ICC tournament draws in the next broadcast cycle even if it reduces India–Pakistan meetings.
• He says engineering marquee clashes for commercial gain erodes sporting integrity despite broadcast rights valued at roughly $3 billion for 2023–27.
• At the 2025 Asia Cup the teams met three times, including the final, with incidents that included Suryakumar Yadav refusing a handshake, Pakistan players making provocative gestures, and India declining a trophy from Mohsin Naqvi.
• The conduct spilled into a women’s ODI in Colombo, where the captains again declined to shake hands.
• There is no indication the ICC plans to change draw practices, as discussion over revenue needs versus governance standards continues in public forums.