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"I've always believed cricket..." Shahid Afridi amid Pakistan's decision to boycott match against India at T20 World Cup 2026
Pakistan, in an unprecedented move, on Sunday announced they will boycott their highly anticipated group-stage match against India at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to be played on February 15 in Colombo. This decision comes despite Pakistan government granting permission to the team to participate in the tournament, with their matches set to be played in Sri Lanka.
The Government of Pakistan, via an official statement on its social media platform X, stated that while the national team would compete in the T20 World Cup, it would not take the field for the match against India. Amid a wave of reactions, former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi, sharing his perspective on the development, expressed 'regret' over Pakistan's stance but also stood by the his government's decision.
"I've always believed cricket can open doors when politics closes them. Regrettably, Pakistan won't play India at the #T20WorldCup, but I stand behind my government's decision. This is the moment for @ICC to lead and prove through decisions, not statements, that it is impartial, independent, and fair to every member," Afridi said in a post on X.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) also expressed serious concern over Pakistan’s selective participation, warning that a boycott undermines the “integrity of global competition” and could have long-term repercussions. Meanwhile, the T20I World Cup is scheduled to begin on February 7.
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