More drama has unfolded ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, which set to kick off in less than a week from now.
It was initially Bangladesh, who refused to play in India, leading to their removal, and then Pakistan, who, after threatening to withdraw, have agreed to participate but not in the IND vs PAK fixture.
The ICC has issued a statement over the matter, asking the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), to consider the implications, and even Sunil Gavaskar, India’s batting legend, has urged for strict action against the boycott.
Sunil Gavaskar On IND vs PAK T20 World Cup Boycott
Speaking with India Today, India’s 1983 World Cup winner, Sunil Gavaskar, stated that ICC must step in and take action against Pakistan so that no other team repeats anything as such in the future.
“If you withdraw earlier on, that’s another matter, but if you withdraw at the last moment, on the eve of the tournament, then yes, I think ICC should come in and take some action,“
“I think it will be something to ensure that no other team in the future also considers doing that,” he added.
The India vs Pakistan match, a group stage fixture, is scheduled for February 15 at the T20 World Cup 2026 in Colombo, Sri Lanka, which less than two weeks away from now.
Notably, the ICC has issued a statement asking PCB to consider the implications of selective participation in such tournaments, warning them of the significant and long-term implications.
However, readers should note that it has not been made clear just what or if any action will be taken against Pakistan if they actually end up forfeiting the IND vs PAK match at the T20 World Cup.
Check Out: ICC vs PCB: Firm Warning To Pakistan Over IND vs PAK T20 World Cup Boycott
