Pakistani media reports suggest their national cricket team could miss the February 15 T20 World Cup 2026 match against India in Colombo.
India Vs Pakistan (Photo credits : X)
In a new development, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) may boycott its group-stage match against India in the T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled for February 15 in Colombo. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi is set to meet Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at 4 pm local time on Monday to make the final decision on Pakistan’s participation.Naqvi had earlier hinted at the possibility of Pakistan pulling out of the tournament. “Whether we play in the T20 World Cup or not will be decided by the government,” he said. “Our Prime Minister is currently abroad. Once he returns, we will seek his advice. The government’s decision will be final and binding. If they say no, the ICC may invite another team.”
Pakistan likely to boycott India vs Pakistan match in T20I World Cup 2026.
— Abubakar Khan (@abubakarmemer) January 26, 2026
(Source - Geo News) pic.twitter.com/uvuBS1DX14
The PCB chief also criticised the International Cricket Council (ICC) over its treatment of Bangladesh. “Bangladesh is being treated unfairly,” Naqvi said. “We raised this at the ICC board meeting. The ICC cannot have double standards, applying one system for one country and a different one for another. Bangladesh should be allowed to play in the World Cup.”He added, “One country cannot make arbitrary decisions while another is treated differently. That is why we believe Bangladesh is being treated unfairly and should be allowed to participate in the tournament.”
Earlier, Naqvi had proposed a “hybrid model” to resolve the issue. “Bangladesh is a full member like Pakistan. If a special arrangement is made for Pakistan and India, the same should apply to Bangladesh,” he said. He also warned, “No country can dictate terms to another. If such attempts are made, Pakistan will take its own stance.The Pakistan players have said they fully support the board’s upcoming decision and will follow PCB guidance. Naqvi praised the team’s preparation, saying success comes from teamwork and skill.Pakistan has already finalised its T20 World Cup squad, led by captain Salman Ali Agha. The tournament starts on February 7 in Sri Lanka and India. Pakistan’s group-stage opponents will include India, the USA, Namibia, and the Netherlands.
