Pakistan will not play against their arch-rivals India in the T20 World Cup 2026.
Pakistan have revealed their decision over participating in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, starting on February 7. Their government has allowed the team to take part in the tournament, hosted by the reigning champions India and Sri Lanka.
However, Pakistan have decided to boycott India match, which was scheduled to take place on February 15 in Colombo.
With just six days remaining for the 10th edition of the 20-over championship, Pakistan’s government has decided to boycott the much-anticipated IND vs PAK fixture of the T20 World Cup 2026.
“The Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan grants approval to the Pakistan Cricket Team to participate in the ICC World T20 2026, however, the Pakistan Cricket Team shall not take the field in the match scheduled on 15th February 2026 against India,” read a statement from their government.
The move introduces a new chapter in the political tensions between the two neighbouring countries. Previously, Pakistan were set to boycott the tournament, following the exclusion of Bangladesh from the T20 World Cup 2026. Notably, the latter was replaced by Scotland after the ICC overruled their demand to play in a neutral venue.
The 2009 champions had shortly announced their 15-member team for the ICC event. But the management had clearly stated that their participation in the tournament solely depends on their government’s decision.
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When PCB first mentioned that they would not be participating in the T20 World Cup 2026, ICC revealed that they would be imposing multiple sanctions, and the board could possibly not be able to play cricket again.
Thus, after announcing the boycott of India fixture, ICC has asked PCB to reconsider their decision.
ICC’s statement reads, “While the ICC respects the roles of governments in matters of national policy, this decision is not in the interest of the global game or the welfare of the fans worldwide, including millions in Pakistan. The ICC hopes that the PCB will consider the significant and long-term implications for cricket in its own country as this is likely to impact the global cricket ecosystem, which it is itself a member and beneficiary of. It [ICC] expects the PCB to explore a mutually acceptable resolution, which protects the interest of all stakeholders.”
The 2022 runners-up will enter the T20 World Cup 2026 with huge momentum after claiming a 3-0 whitewash over Australia at home. The side will play against Ireland on February 4 in a warm-up fixture before facing the Netherlands in the tournament opener.
Besides the Netherlands and India, the team is scheduled to lock horns against the USA and Namibia on February 10 and February 18, respectively. Pakistan will play all of their T20 World Cup 2026 matches in Sri Lanka.
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