The Pakistan government announced that while the national team will participate in the T20 World Cup 2026, it will boycott the group-stage match against India scheduled to be played in Colombo on February 15.
As per ICC playing conditions, a walkover is not granted based on a public announcement or political statement. The match remains officially scheduled until the toss time on match day.
If the Pakistan team fails to appear at the ground for the toss at the scheduled time, the on-field match referee and umpires are empowered to declare the match forfeited, resulting in a walkover for India.
The Indian team, led by captain Suryakumar Yadav, must reach the venue on time and be present for the toss. Only after India fulfils all formal requirements can a walkover be awarded.
In case of a forfeiture, India will be awarded two points, while Pakistan will receive zero points. No balls will be bowled, and the result will be officially recorded as a walkover win for India.
Losing two points without playing could severely damage Pakistan’s qualification hopes. They would be under pressure to win all remaining group matches against the Netherlands, USA and Namibia, with any loss potentially leading to early elimination from the tournament.