T20 World Cup 2026: SLC urges Pakistan to reconsider India boycott call

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has appealed to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to rethink the decision to skip the scheduled India vs Pakistan Group A match in Colombo during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. 

SLC wrote to the PCB highlighting the heavy impact the potential cancellation would have on the tournament’s commercial and sporting dynamics, especially for co-host Sri Lanka.

The highly-anticipated fixture is a major draw for fans, and broadcasters and its absence could hit ticket sales hard, particularly in Colombo, where the arch-rivals are scheduled to face each other. Pakistan had announced that its team will boycott the February 15 game, leaving uncertainty over whether the marquee clash will go ahead as scheduled.

The SLC’s move shows widening concerns about both economic and cricketing repercussions if the clash ultimately is called off. SLC stated that the clash is not just a cricketing spectacle but also a vital reason for ticket sales, broadcast demand and sponsorship value that benefit the host nation. The board also reminded Pakistan of Sri Lanka’s past support, including touring Pakistan during sensitive periods, and urged similar response this time. 

Sri Lanka’s tourism and hotel sector has already suffered a notable setback following Pakistan’s reported decision not to play the February 15 match in Colombo. Several Colombo-based hotels have experienced booking cancellations, according to industry sources, after having anticipated a surge in international visitors tied to the high-profile game. These cancellations have directly affected occupancy forecasts during the World Cup period. 

The ICC has already issued warning to Pakistan about the consequences of a no-show, including possible sanctions and financial liabilities, given the match’s status as the tournament’s most valuable fixture. 

With the T20 World Cup set to begin on February 7, SLC’s appeal emphasises the broader effects of the boycott, on Sri Lanka’s economy, and broadcasters loss. 

We have not refused to play: Suryakumar Yadav 

Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav, meanwhile, gave an honest reply when he was asked about the Indian team’s plans for the Pakistan game amid all the drama. He revealed India’s plans. 

“Our mindset is clear. We have not refused to play – they have. We’ve booked our flight and we are going,” Suryakumar told reporters at the pre-tournament news conference in Mumbai.