Pakistan has announced that it will not play against India in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 match scheduled for February 15 in Colombo.
The Pakistan government issued an official statement granting approval for the national team’s participation in the tournament, but directed them not to take the field against India. This decision comes despite the ICC agreeing to the Pakistan Cricket Board’s demand to host its matches in Sri Lanka instead of India.
The ICC urged Pakistan to reconsider, warning that the boycott could have long-term implications for cricket in the country and the global ecosystem. The governing body emphasised sportsmanship and the importance of participation in all scheduled matches.
BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla and secretary Devajit Saikia refused to comment on Pakistan’s boycott until discussions with the ICC take place. Saikia stated that an official statement would be issued only after receiving formal intimation. Shukla reiterated that BCCI will align with ICC’s stance on sportsmanship.
Pakistan’s move is seen as a protest against the ICC’s earlier decision to remove Bangladesh from the tournament for refusing to play in India. The boycott has sparked uncertainty around one of the most anticipated fixtures of the World Cup.
ALSO READ: India A vs USA Warm-Up Match Kicks Off T20 World Cup Prep
