The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is expected to consult the government once again following a request from Sri Lanka Cricket to reconsider Pakistan’s proposed boycott of the high-profile T20 World Cup clash against India scheduled for February 15 in Colombo.
While the Pakistan government has permitted the national team to participate in the T20 World Cup, it has barred the side from playing against India—traditionally the tournament’s most commercially significant fixture for the International Cricket Council (ICC) and global broadcasters.
Sri Lanka Cricket has reportedly warned that the absence of the marquee India–Pakistan encounter could result in substantial financial losses, including reduced gate revenue and hospitality income, while also affecting the tournament’s reputation in the co-host nation.
Sources indicated that PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has been approached directly by Sri Lanka Cricket President Shammi Silva, who emphasised the importance of the fixture for Sri Lanka at both financial and organisational levels. Naqvi is understood to have assured Sri Lankan officials that he would raise the matter with Pakistan’s government before any final decision is taken.
Contrary to some media reports, Pakistan has not formally rejected Sri Lanka’s request. A decision is expected after consultations with the government leadership, potentially within the coming days.
Pakistan are currently scheduled to play all their group matches in Colombo and Pallekele, beginning with an opening fixture against the Netherlands. The evolving situation surrounding the India match highlights how geopolitical considerations continue to influence major international cricket events, even as the T20 World Cup seeks to maintain competitive and commercial balance.
