India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav has responded to Pakistan’s decision to boycott their match in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. The Pakistan government has directed its men’s Cricket team to withdraw from the match, which is set for February 15 in Colombo.
While Pakistan is allowed to participate in other matches, they will not take part in this high-profile game. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has urged the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to reconsider, emphasizing the significance of the match.
Suryakumar stated that his team will still be going to Sri Lanka. “We haven’t said no, they have. Our flight is booked and we are going,” he said.
If the match is canceled, the ICC may impose penalties on the PCB. Pakistan could lose the ability to host major tournaments, and foreign players might be barred from participation in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Additionally, the World Cup broadcasters are considering legal action against the PCB if the IND vs PAK match does not occur.
The Prime Minister of Pakistan has confirmed that the decision to boycott will not change, placing the ICC in a difficult position. Tensions have risen since Bangladesh’s request to shift their matches from India to Sri Lanka was turned down.
Instead of Bangladesh, Scotland was chosen, further complicating matters. With time running out, the ICC faces an uphill battle to persuade Pakistan in the coming days leading up to the T20 World Cup.
