India-Pakistan showdown in T20 World Cup on track, R Ashwin predicts PCB's U-turn

R Ashwin on India vs Pakistan (Source:X)

The cricketing world is watching closely as Pakistan’s controversial boycott of its T20 World Cup clash against India continues to make headlines. 

Salman Ali Agha’s side has reportedly been advised by the Government of Pakistan not to take the field against India on February 15, citing solidarity with Bangladesh, which was removed from the tournament by the ICC.

“The Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan grants approval to the Pakistan cricket team to participate in the ICC World T20 2026. However, the Pakistan cricket team shall not take the field in the match scheduled on 15th February, 2026, against India,” said the Pakistan government in their official X-post. 

R Ashwin makes bold take on Pakistan's stance on T20 World Cup 2026

Despite the political undertones, former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin remains unfazed by Pakistan’s threat. 

In a bold statement, Ashwin declared that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) will ‘100 per cent backtrack’ in the coming days, ensuring that the high-profile encounter on February 15 in Colombo goes ahead as scheduled.

Ashwin expressed his disappointment over the PCB’s stance - 

“100 per cent the match will happen. I think Pakistan will backtrack over the next four to five days. I want to see the encounter as well,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

Government permission, but partial boycott for Pakistan

The situation took a surprising turn when the Pakistan government granted the team permission to travel to Sri Lanka to participate in the 20-team tournament. However, it simultaneously announced that the team would not play against India.

“They can face financial losses. The broadcasters will lose a lot of money, so there has to be a compromise. All the members will face losses, and they will say in the ICC meeting that, because of Pakistan, we are facing these losses. In the PSL, the players might not be given the NOCs,” he added.

He also notes that a refusal to play against India could have far-reaching consequences for Pakistan. From financial penalties imposed by the ICC to strained relations with broadcasters and other cricket boards, the risks are significant.

Ashwin emphasised that the PCB should consider the 'long-term' impact of their decision.

“Pakistan and India will be playing at a neutral venue, so the issue of the venue is not there. To say I will not play against a particular opponent is not acceptable. I hope better sense prevails and these matches take place,” said Ashwin.

ICC warns Pakistan amid T20 World Cup stance

The ICC has already stepped in, issuing a statement warning the PCB of serious consequences should the boycott proceed. While Pakistan has not officially communicated its stance to the ICC, experts suggest that the standoff may continue to unfold over the next few days.

It is important to mention that both teams are in Group A alongside Namibia, the Netherlands, and the USA.

As the global tournament approaches, all eyes remain on Colombo. Whether Pakistan maintains its boycott or reverses course.