The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) vice-president Rajeev Shukla spoke out on Pakistan's decision to boycott their T20 World Cup 2026 clash against India, which is supposed to take place on February 15 in Colombo. Rajeev Shukla backed the International Cricket Council's (ICC) decision to consider possible sanctions against the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) if they refused to play against India.
Why is Pakistan refusing to play vs India?
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) conveyed through an official government statement that it is being viewed as a political protest linked to Bangladesh’s removal from the tournament after the ICC declined its request to shift matches from India to Sri Lanka on security grounds. The Cricketing governing body cautioned PCB that a boycott of the mega event could invite punitive sanctions.
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“The ICC has issued a big statement on this subject. It has highlighted element of sportsmanship. We completely agree with the ICC. BCCI will not make any comment until we speak to the ICC,” Shukla told reporters.
T20 World Cup 2026 controversy explained
The controversy around the T20 World Cup 2026 began when the BCCI asked IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to drop Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from their squad. After this decision, Bangladesh refused to travel to India, citing security concerns.
Importantly, Bangladesh raised these concerns only after the ICC had already announced the schedule for the tournament. The ICC held several meetings with the Bangladesh Cricket Board to resolve the issue, but Bangladesh remained firm. They made it clear they would not take part in the T20 World Cup if their match venues were not changed.
Following this standoff, the ICC announced Scotland as Bangladesh’s replacement in the tournament.
What happens if Pakistan refused to play against India?
Although a walkover would give India full points, the ICC still has the power to impose financial penalties on the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
Pakistan is set to begin its campaign against the Netherlands on February 7. They will then face the USA on February 10 and Namibia on February 18. All of Pakistan’s matches will be played at the SSC ground in Colombo.