Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed his country’s decision to boycott the India match in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, casting doubt over one of cricket’s most anticipated encounters. Addressing the federal cabinet in Islamabad, the Prime Minister said Pakistan has taken a firm and carefully considered stand, stressing that sports should not be mixed with politics.
The India–Pakistan group-stage match was scheduled for February 15 at Colombo’s Premadasa Stadium. If Pakistan follows through with its decision, India is set to receive two points via a walkover, dealing a major blow to the tournament’s marquee fixture.
Pakistan’s move is reportedly linked to dissatisfaction with the ICC’s decision to drop Bangladesh from the tournament and include Scotland instead. Bangladesh had earlier sought to shift its matches from India to Sri Lanka, citing security concerns, and the situation was further complicated by the BCCI’s directive to release Mustafizur Rahman from the IPL. Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi had criticised the ICC’s decision as unfair, prompting Pakistan to announce solidarity with Bangladesh by refusing to play India.
The ICC has strongly opposed Pakistan’s stance, warning that selectively boycotting teams in a global tournament undermines sporting integrity and competitive balance. Reports suggest Pakistan could face serious repercussions, including a sharp cut in ICC revenue share, restrictions on NOCs for players seeking to compete in overseas leagues, potential legal action from broadcasters, and even the loss of future hosting rights for major international events.
