The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to once again approach the federal government on Sri Lanka Cricket’s (SLC) urgent appeal to review the boycott of the high-profile Pakistan vs India match scheduled for February 15 in Colombo during the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
Sri Lanka Cricket highlights financial and reputational impact
Sri Lanka Cricket has formally written to the PCB, warning that the absence of the arch-rivals’ clash – one of the biggest commercial draws in world cricket – will result in significant financial losses for SLC. The email also highlighted the potential damage to the image and organization of the tournament in the island nation, which co-hosts the event with India.
Without the India-Pakistan match, SLC risks losing significant revenue from ticket revenue, hospitality packages, sponsorships and broadcasting-related income.
The Pakistani government’s position remains key
The Pakistani government allowed the national team to participate in the T20 World Cup, but strictly prohibited it from meeting India. The decision has put the PCB in a quandary as the match is considered the most lucrative for the ICC, broadcasters and host organizations.
Close ties with Sri Lanka are mentioned.
A source close to the developments highlighted the strong bilateral relationship between Pakistan and Sri Lanka at both the government and cricket levels.
“It is obvious that Pakistan has always maintained very close and friendly ties with Sri Lanka at the inter-governmental and cricket level. So the letter from their board cannot be simply ignored“, the source said.
The source also said that SLC President Shammi Silva has directly contacted PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, reminding him that Sri Lanka is counting on Pakistan’s support at this critical juncture. Without the India-Pakistan game, SLC will suffer significant financial setbacks.
Mohsin Naqvi to brief the Prime Minister
Naqvi assured Silva that he would consult with the Pakistani government and come back to a final decision. Media reports that Pakistan has already rejected Sri Lanka’s request are untrue, the source said.
“PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has not even been in the country since yesterday and is expected to return today. He will convey the email to the Prime Minister to end the boycott of the India match and then a decision on the matter will be taken by Monday.“, the source confirmed.
Recalling Sri Lanka’s support for Pakistan
The source also pointed out Sri Lanka’s recent support for Pakistan. As recently as November 2025, when some Sri Lankan players raised safety concerns during the white-ball tour of Pakistan, the Sri Lankan government intervened and ordered the players to complete the series.
Pakistan’s tournament schedule has not changed yet
Pakistan will play all their group stage matches in Colombo and Pallekele, starting with the opening match of the tournament against the Netherlands on Saturday, February 7, 2026. The results of government consultations will determine whether the long-awaited showdown with India takes place as scheduled for February 15.