Karachi: Pakistan’s cricket board has reversed its earlier decision to boycott the upcoming T20 World Cup match against India, following discussions with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and intervention from friendly countries. The announcement came after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held talks with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who briefed him on ongoing negotiations between Pakistan’s cricket board, the ICC, and other member boards.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi had earlier sparked controversy by referencing Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, in response to ICC threats regarding the boycott. Speaking at a PSL press conference, Naqvi said, “Neither am I intimidated by the threats from India and the ICC, nor is the Government of Pakistan. And as for Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, you already know him, he never gets afraid.”
Asim Munir was promoted to the rank of Field Marshal in May 2025 amid rising border tensions with India during Operation Sindoor. Naqvi’s comments highlighted the long-standing intersection of politics, military influence, and cricket in Pakistan, drawing criticism from observers who say sports should remain separate from political considerations.
The government’s official X account confirmed the reversal, directing the national cricket team to play against India on February 15, 2026. The statement emphasized that the decision aims to protect “the spirit of cricket” and ensure continuity of the sport across participating nations.
Pakistan’s initial boycott decision had caused friction within the ICC and raised concerns about maintaining fairness in the tournament. With the U-turn, the PCB seeks to smooth relations with international cricket authorities while ensuring its players compete on a global stage.
This episode reflects the continued political sensitivity surrounding cricket in Pakistan, where government, military, and sports authorities often intersect, influencing decisions that reverberate beyond the field. The focus now shifts to the team’s performance, as fans eagerly await a competitive clash between the two cricketing rivals.
