SriLanka Cricket (SLC) has formally requested the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to review the decision to boycott the high-profile International Cricket Council (ICC) Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 clash with India. Sri Lanka says there could be serious financial and sporting repercussions for them.
According to Sri Lankan media reports, SLC has sent a letter to the PCB saying the February 15 match in Colombo was integral to commercial planning and logistics of the tournament.
The fixture, which was thought to be the biggest draw of the group stage, had already generated huge ticket sales and these hosting arrangements had been completed.
Financial Impact and Tourism Impact
SLC warned that if the match was cancelled it would incur huge financial losses. The Pakistan and India match was supposed to be a hit in terms of travelling fans which would increase hotel-bookings and tourism revenue.
But Sri Lankan media revealed that hotel bookings have already begun to slow down after the boycott by Pakistan was announced and giving the local tourism sector an early blow.
Appeal to Historic Ties
In its communication SLC stressed on its long deep-rooted ties with the PCB as it notes the support it has given Pakistan cricket during their adverse times.
The board urged Pakistan to keep in mind the “extraordinary circumstances” and old bilateral relationships and the wider interests of international cricket.
SLC also assured the PCB of “the highest level of security” for all matches in Colombo, a key concern with high-profile fixtures in the region.
Wider Tournament Concerns
Sources say there have been private moves within other cricket boards urging Pakistan to reconsider, for the sake of the integrity of the tournament and group-stage scheduling.
Pakistan’s stance after the decision by the federal government to stop the national team from playing India.
Indian media had earlier claimed that the ICC is making a behind-the-scenes effort to convince Pakistan to soften its stance.
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup is scheduled to start on February 7, in India and Sri Lanka. All Pakistan’s matches are scheduled in Sri Lanka.
Meanwhile, India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav has confirmed that the Indian team are travelling to Sri Lanka for a scheduled fixture against Pakistan regardless of this boycott announcement.
Also read: India to travel Sri Lanka for T-20 WC clash despite Pakistan boycott
