SLC Urges End to Pakistan Boycott India T20 World Cup

Feb 5, 2026 - 21:00

Boycotting of India T20 World Cup has caused a great diplomatic meltdown in cricket in Pakistan. Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has officially come into play now. They have written a formal letter to Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). The board is begging Pakistan to change its position. This particular game is a huge one. It will be held on February 15 at the R. Premadasa stadium in Colombo.

In my opinion, this is a breaking point to the sport. To express its support to Bangladesh, Pakistan is now boycotting the match. Scotland has recently substituted Bangladesh in the tournament. Although the political message is obvious, the damage to finances is even more obvious. SLC pointed to substantial financial exposure as a reason why this game should not be canceled.

This involves a huge blow to hospitality and tourism. A large number of foreign customers is already canceling hotel reservations in Sri Lanka. Neither is the International Cricket Council (ICC). They have put on board Deputy Chairman Imran Khawaja to spearhead back channel negotiations.

Khawaja is a Singaporean mediator of good standing. He is making an attempt to persuade the PCB that they cannot have a selective participation. Failure by Pakistan to play this game means that they lose two points. This would probably close their hopes of making it to the Super 8. Prime minister Shehbaz sharif stands his ground as yet.

According to him, one should not apply politics in sports. Nevertheless, his act to ban the team is political in itself. SLC has referenced Pakistan to the long history of mutual support. They wish this friendship to bring a heart change.