, Feb. 3 -- batter Kamran Akmal has launched an attack on the International Cricket Council (ICC), urging the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to stand firm on its decision to boycott the high-profile group match against India in the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Akmal's comments come amid escalating tensions after the Pakistan government instructed the national team to participate in the tournament but refuse to play against arch-rivals India on February 15 in Colombo. The T20 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, is set to begin this Saturday.

Speaking on the YouTube channel 'Game Plan', Akmal questioned the ICC's silence during previous controversies where India refused to travel to Pakistan.

"PCB should not back down! Was ICC sleeping...