Jay Shah vs Mohsin Naqvi to SLC on IND vs PAK. Image Credits: X
Sri Lanka Cricket's last-minute attempt to save the high-profile India vs Pakistan match at the T20 World Cup 2026 has failed, with the Pakistan Cricket Board remaining firm on its decision to boycott the fixture.
The PCB, led by chairman Mohsin Naqvi, has made it clear that the board cannot go against the the Pakistan government's directive.
The India vs Pakistan match, scheduled for February 15 in Colombo, is one of the most anticipated fixtures in cricket. However, the Pakistan government recently announced a boycott of the match in support of Bangladesh, which withdrew from the tournament citing security concerns in India.
SLC urges PCB to reconsider boycott of India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup fixture
Concerned about the serious financial and economic impact, Sri Lanka Cricket wrote an official letter to the PCB, urging it to reconsider the decision.
The letter highlighted the potential losses to tourism, including hotel bookings, flight reservations, local transport providers, and other businesses connected to the match.
SLC also stated that all arrangements for the game at the R Premadasa Stadium had been completed and that the match was expected to be a complete sell-out.
They also warned that the consequences of Pakistan’s non-participation could be disastrous. The board said Colombo has already begun to feel the impact, with reports of hotel bookings being cancelled and reduced tourist interest.
Broadcasters, sponsors, and advertisers are also expected to suffer major losses if the marquee clash is called off.
PCB Unmoved despite SLC Pressure over IND-PAK clash
Despite these strong appeals, the PCB has refused to budge. Sources within the board confirmed that the letter was received, but the decision cannot be overturned.
"Yes, we have received the letter, but we can’t overturn the government’s decision. The call is firmly with the government," PCB sources told The Hindustan Times.
The Pakistan Cricket Board has also indicated that Sri Lanka Cricket should respect Pakistan’s position and avoid pressuring the board on a political decision.
IND-PAK rivalry at risk as Pakistan Cricket Board sticks to boycott stance
The India-Pakistan rivalry is one of the biggest draws in global sports, often delivering record-breaking viewership and massive revenues.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan is scheduled to begin its T20 World Cup campaign against the Netherlands on February 7, followed by a match against the USA on February 10.
The team comes into the tournament in strong form after recently whitewashing Australia in a bilateral series.
India captain Suryakumar Yadav has already confirmed that the 'Men in Blue' will travel to Colombo on February 15 as per schedule.
However, with the T20 World Cup set to begin in just 24 hours, the chances of the India-Pakistan match taking place appear increasingly slim.
As things stand, Mohsin Naqvi-led PCB remains adamant, the government's stance remains unchanged, and Sri Lanka's plea is ignored, leaving cricket on the brink of witnessing a historic India-Pakistan no-show at a World Cup event.
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