Sri Lanka Cricket appeals to Pakistan Cricket Board to reverse planned forfeiture of high-stakes match in Colombo amid fears of economic fallout.
Colombo, Sri Lanka – Sri Lanka Cricket urged the Pakistan Cricket Board on Thursday to reconsider its T20 World Cup boycott of the group stage match against India set for 15 February in Colombo. The appeal stems from potential financial losses and tourism impacts as the tournament begins Saturday with Pakistan facing Netherlands in Colombo and India playing United States at home.
The request underscores strains in South Asian cricket amid political tensions. Sri Lanka as co-host faces substantial revenue shortfalls from ticket sales and hospitality if the blockbuster fixture is abandoned. The match has sold out with high demand from fans across the region.
Sri Lanka Urges Pakistan to Reconsider
Sri Lanka Cricket sent a formal letter to the Pakistan Cricket Board highlighting risks. “Any non-participation will have wide-ranging implications including substantial financial exposure for SLC and the potential loss of anticipated tourism inflows” the board stated. It added “We urge you to take into account the exceptional circumstances the enduring relationship between our two boards and the broader interests of the game of cricket.”
Ashley de Silva chief executive of Sri Lanka Cricket confirmed the approach. “We have asked them to reconsider the decision based on the reports we have got” he said on Friday. The letter from president Shammi Silva noted preparations for security logistics and ticketing are complete. Hotel cancellations in Colombo have begun affecting the local economy still recovering from the 2022 meltdown.
Pakistan has not responded to the plea. The Pakistan Cricket Board remains silent on the matter two days after the letter. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif affirmed the T20 World Cup boycott during a Wednesday press conference in Islamabad. He described it as solidarity with Bangladesh excluded from the event.
Reasons for Bangladesh T20 Exclusion
Bangladesh refused to play matches in India leading to their removal by the International Cricket Council last month. The decision prompted Pakistan’s stance on the Pakistan India match in Colombo. Salman Agha Pakistan captain noted on Thursday that any knockout encounter with India would require government consultation. “If Pakistan were to face India in a semifinal or final they would consult their government” he said.
The International Cricket Council warned Pakistan of “significant and long-term implications for cricket in its own country” and effects on the global ecosystem. It expressed hope for resolution but has not detailed sanctions. Experts suggest a board meeting may occur soon as Pakistan is already in Sri Lanka for their opener.
Pakistan India Match Colombo Details
The group A fixture at R Premadasa Stadium holds immense appeal due to the rivalry. Pakistan and India have not contested bilateral series for over a decade meeting only in multilateral events. The T20 World Cup boycott targets this specific game while Pakistan proceeds with other matches. If both advance they could meet in later stages.
Sri Lanka reminded Pakistan of past support including tours during security concerns. The co-hosting arrangement splits venues with India handling some games. The tournament features 20 teams in four groups with top two advancing to Super 8s.
Background
India-Pakistan cricket ties have been fraught since 2008 attacks in Mumbai. Full series halted though they clashed in 2016 T20 World Cup and 2023 Asia Cup. Bangladesh T20 exclusion adds a layer as Dhaka cited safety issues for declining India venues. The International Cricket Council adjusted the format excluding Bangladesh after failed talks.
South Asia’s cricket economy relies on such rivalries. The 2024 T20 World Cup generated over USD 100 million in revenue. Sri Lanka’s share from co-hosting includes 8 group matches and potential knockouts. Tourism inflows projected at LKR 5000 million could drop if the Pakistan India match Colombo is forfeited.
The T20 World Cup boycott echoes past disputes. In 2023 Pakistan threatened Asia Cup pullout over venue issues resolved via hybrid model. Here solidarity with Bangladesh T20 exclusion drives the position. Sri Lanka urges Pakistan to prioritise cricket’s interests amid these tensions.
Stakeholders monitor fan reactions. Sold-out tickets for the Pakistan India match Colombo risk refunds straining organisers. Broadcasters anticipate viewership dips if the game is skipped.
What’s Next
The International Cricket Council may convene urgent talks. Pakistan’s opener against Netherlands proceeds Saturday in Colombo. A resolution before 15 February is critical. If the T20 World Cup boycott persists points allocation could favour India by default under rules.
Pakistan captain indicated flexibility for knockouts but group stage remains firm. Sri Lanka urges Pakistan to weigh economic ties. The board awaits a reply as preparations continue.
As the T20 World Cup boycott looms over the tournament stakeholders seek a path forward to preserve the event’s integrity.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, February 6th, 2026
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