Colombo: Pakistan is likely to boycott its T20 World Cup match against India, raising fresh uncertainty over one of cricket’s biggest rivalries and putting pressure on tournament organizers.
The issue began after Bangladesh withdrew from playing its matches in India over security and travel concerns. Pakistan supported Bangladesh’s position and later said it would not play India as a form of protest. However, Pakistan has not withdrawn from the tournament and will continue to play its other group matches.
The high profile match between Pakistan and India is scheduled for February 15 in Colombo. This game is one of the most watched fixtures in world cricket and brings major revenue from television rights and sponsorships.
The International Cricket Council has warned that refusing to play could break tournament rules and contracts. Officials have told the Pakistan Cricket Board that a boycott may lead to financial penalties and possible legal action from broadcasters. Other cricket boards have also expressed concern, saying politics should not disrupt the competition.
Pakistan officials say their decision is linked to fairness and security issues raised earlier in the tournament planning. They argue that teams should be treated equally when it comes to match venues and travel arrangements.
India has not issued a strong public response but is preparing for the match as scheduled. Tournament organizers are still hopeful that the game will go ahead and that the situation can be resolved through talks.
If Pakistan does not take the field against India, the match could be cancelled or recorded as a forfeit, depending on the final decision of the ICC. This could affect group standings and increase tension between cricket boards.
Despite the controversy, the T20 World Cup is continuing with matches involving Australia, England, South Africa and other teams. Fans are closely watching to see whether the Pakistan India clash will happen or become the most dramatic absence of the tournament.