Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has asked the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to reconsider its choice to boycott the upcoming India vs. Pakistan match during the T20 World Cup 2026. This significant match is set for February 15 at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo.
The situation arose after the Pakistani government announced that their team would participate in the tournament but would not play against India. This decision is seen as a gesture of support for Bangladesh, which pulled out of the tournament after security concerns led to Scotland taking its place.
SLC references 2009 terror attack in letter to PCB regarding India match boycott
SLC President Shammi Silva emphasized in a two-page letter the importance of “reciprocity” in their relationship. He mentioned the 2009 terror attack in Lahore, during which the Sri Lankan team bus was attacked, injuring six players and leading to years of isolation for Pakistan in cricket.
Sri Lanka was the first major nation to return to Pakistan in 2019, helping to revive Test cricket. The letter pointed out that Sri Lanka provided support to Pakistan during tough times when others hesitated to visit. This historical context serves as a request for Pakistan to honor its commitment to the sport and acknowledge its supportive neighbor.
Economic concerns and the impact of cancellations
The SLC also raised alarms about the financial and logistical impacts of a boycott. The India-Pakistan match is crucial for the economy, generating significant interest and leading to sold-out tickets in Colombo.
Local economies are already feeling effects, with reports of hotel booking cancellations as international fans rethink travel plans. SLC warned that skipping this key match would result in:
- Significant revenue loss: The tournament could lose up to $250 million in commercial value.
- Tourism decline: A major decrease in expected international visitors, impacting local businesses.
- Reputation risk: Possible long-term damage to Sri Lanka’s ability to host global events if disruptions occur due to political boycotts.
The ICC is closely monitoring the developments, leaving the cricketing world in uncertainty. India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav has expressed his team’s readiness to play, while Pakistan’s skipper Salman Agha confirmed the team would follow government orders. The cricket community now awaits PCB’s decision on whether to embrace sportsmanship or adhere to the political boycott.
