With less than a week to go before the T20 World Cup 2026, uncertainty continues to surround Pakistan cricket team’s participation after reports suggested the country may boycott matches against India.
The controversy escalated after Bangladesh cricket team was eliminated from the tournament following its request to move matches out of India over security concerns. Bangladesh was replaced by Scotland, and the International Cricket Council (ICC) upheld its original hosting decision.
Following Bangladesh’s exit, Pakistan’s cricket board chairman Mohsin Naqvi accused the International Cricket Council of “double standards,” prompting political involvement after he met Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The government is now expected to take the final call on Pakistan’s participation.
Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan strongly criticized Pakistan’s position, calling it “absolutely utter nonsense.” He pointed out that Pakistan had already agreed to a hybrid hosting model and to play India matches at neutral venues such as Sri Lanka.
“If you’ve already accepted the hybrid model, why create this situation now?” Pathan said, adding that Pakistan and India already play each other at neutral venues with ICC approval.
Defending champions India cricket team are scheduled to face Pakistan in their group-stage clash in Colombo on February 15, provided Pakistan goes ahead with participation.