India, Feb 03 : The T20 World Cup controversy intensified as Pakistan confirmed its participation in the tournament while refusing to play the high-profile match against India on February 15 in Colombo. The decision was announced through the official social media handles of the Pakistani government, stating that the team “shall not take the field” for the specific fixture.
In a surprising twist, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly decided against sending any official communication to the International Cricket Council (ICC) regarding the boycott. According to Telecom Asia Sport, the PCB believes there is no need for a formal letter since the government has already conveyed the decision publicly.
A PCB source said, “Since it’s a government decision and conveyed through an official platform, there is no need to write to the ICC. Did India ever officially notify the ICC when they refused to play in Pakistan? They didn’t. So why should we?”
The Shehbaz Sharif government had earlier confirmed Pakistan’s participation in the T20 World Cup, jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8, but reiterated the team would not face India, a match considered the tournament’s biggest revenue generator. The boycott could potentially result in advertising losses of Rs 200–250 crore.
The PCB’s refusal to formally notify the ICC is being seen as a tactical move to maintain leverage in the ongoing dispute. The Board has indicated it will not entertain any ICC appeals or compromise on the boycott, citing the government directive as justification.
The ICC has reportedly warned that selective participation could compromise the tournament’s integrity and could lead to serious consequences for Pakistan if it refuses to play the scheduled match. However, the Pakistan government is said to have sought legal advice and is prepared to back the PCB in case of any ICC action.
The Pakistan squad reached Colombo on Monday evening, ready for the tournament, while the PCB is reportedly preparing for legal representation in discussions with the ICC, signaling its intent to challenge any pressure to play against India.