Dubai (Sports Desk): Concerns are growing within global cricket circles over Pakistan’s decision not to play against India in the T20 World Cup 2026. While the International Cricket Council (ICC) is worried about the situation, several cricket boards around the world are also assessing the potential impact of this decision. Following Sri Lanka, the Emirates Cricket Board has now also urged Pakistan to reconsider its stance.
According to media reports, the Emirates Cricket Board has formally contacted the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), requesting a review of the decision not to play the scheduled match against India on February 15. UAE officials emphasized that flexibility is essential in this matter, keeping in view the broader interests of cricket and the overall significance of the tournament.
Earlier, Sri Lanka Cricket had made a similar appeal. In a written communication to the PCB, Sri Lanka Cricket warned that the cancellation of the Pakistan-India match scheduled for February 15 in Colombo could result in significant financial losses, not only for the cricket board but also for the country’s economy. The letter stated that all arrangements for the match had been completed, tickets had already been sold, and a cancellation would severely impact tourism-related revenue.
Sri Lanka Cricket further noted that following the boycott announcement, a large number of fans had cancelled hotel bookings, putting additional pressure on the tourism sector. The statement also highlighted that Sri Lanka Cricket had stood firmly with the PCB during difficult times in the past, and therefore appealed for a review of the decision in light of extraordinary circumstances, long-standing relations, and the overall interests of cricket.
Meanwhile, acting on the directives of the Government of Pakistan, the national team has been barred from playing against India. However, reports suggest that the ICC is continuing diplomatic efforts to persuade Pakistan to reconsider its decision.
