Former India fast bowler Chetan Sharma believes that Pakistan will reverse its decision to boycott India’s 2026 T20 World Cup match after February 12. The Pakistan government denied the team permission to play against India with the match scheduled to be played on February 15 at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
While the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is yet to formally inform the International Cricket Council (ICC) of any boycott stance, Chetan Sharma believes Pakistan will change its mind soon, claiming the move is politically motivated. He also suggested that Pakistan’s military chief could step in and ask for the separation of sports from politics.
Salaam Cricket 2026 Update
“What was the fault of the Bangladeshi players? None. This is politics. Bangladesh has elections on the 12th. Then you will see a turnaround. There will be a statement saying, ‘Considering public opinion, cricket should not suffer, Pakistan will play against India.'” said Sharma on Salaa, Cricket 2026.
Chetan Sharma also added that it is the Pakistani cricketers who are suffering the most due to the current attitude of their board.
“Pakistan has not yet formally communicated anything to the ICC. Statements without official confirmation mean nothing. Anyone can announce retirement – but if you don’t make it official, nothing will change. Who is really suffering here? Cricket – and the cricketers,” he added.
WILL INDIA TRAVEL TO COLOMBO?
Meanwhile, ahead of the tournament, Pakistan T20 captain Salman Ali Agha also addressed the issue during the captains’ meeting, who reiterated that the decision regarding playing against India lies with the government and not the team.
Asked about a possible India-Pakistan clash in the semi-finals or final, Agha said Pakistan would have to seek official permission again if such a situation arose. On the other hand, India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav confirmed that India will go to Colombo as planned and that it was up to Pakistan to decide to play or not.
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Issued by:
Rishabh Beniwal
Published on:
February 5, 2026