Our Bureau
Islamabad
Pakistan will travel to Sri Lanka for the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup but has decided not to play its group‑stage match against India in Colombo on February 15. The government of Pakistan said it has cleared the team’s participation in the tournament but directed that the squad “shall not take the field” in the India clash, without giving a reason. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is expected to fly the team to Colombo on Monday, as the World Cup begins on Saturday.
The International Cricket Council has warned that this “selective participation” goes against the spirit of a global event and could have long‑term consequences for cricket in Pakistan. In a statement, the ICC said the decision is not in the interest of the game or fans, including millions in Pakistan, and stressed that all qualified teams are expected to compete on equal terms. The world body is still waiting for an official communication from the PCB.
Under ICC playing conditions, Pakistan would forfeit two points if it does not play India, and its net run‑rate will be hit because the full 20 overs of a forfeited innings are counted against the team. Pakistan is in Group A with India, Namibia, the Netherlands and the USA, and will play all its matches in Sri Lanka. The boycott also threatens big revenue losses for broadcasters, as an India–Pakistan clash is usually the most watched and lucrative fixture of any ICC tournament. The ICC has urged the PCB to find a resolution that protects all stakeholders.
