The Pakistan Cricket Board is set to consult its government once again over the proposed boycott of the 15th February T20 World Cup match against India in Colombo. The move follows a formal request from Sri Lanka Cricket, which has asked Pakistan to reconsider its stance.
The Pakistan government has cleared the national team to take part in the T20 World Cup. However, it has barred the side from playing India. The India–Pakistan clash is the most lucrative fixture for the ICC and broadcasters. Its absence would have major commercial implications.
Sri Lanka Cricket has warned that scrapping the marquee match would lead to heavy financial losses. Gate receipts, hospitality revenue, and sponsorship value would all take a hit. SLC has also expressed concern that the tournament’s image in Sri Lanka would suffer, as the island nation is co-hosting the event with India.
Pakistan are scheduled to play all their matches in Sri Lanka. Their campaign begins on Saturday against the Netherlands. Other games are split between Colombo and Pallekele.
The PCB has acknowledged the importance of Sri Lanka’s appeal. The two countries share strong ties at both government and cricketing levels. For that reason, the request is being treated seriously and not dismissed outright.
SLC has directly reached out to PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi. The Sri Lankan board has stressed that it needs Pakistan’s support at this stage. Without matches involving either India or Pakistan, Sri Lanka stands to lose significant additional income from the tournament.
Naqvi has indicated that he will place the matter before the Pakistani government. Reports claiming that Pakistan has already rejected Sri Lanka’s request have been denied.
The PCB chairman has been travelling and only recently returned to the country. He is expected to brief the Prime Minister on the issue. A final decision on whether to lift the boycott is likely by Monday.
The matter also carries recent context. In November, the Sri Lankan government strongly backed Pakistan during a bilateral tour. Despite security concerns raised by some players, Sri Lanka ensured the team completed its white-ball in Pakistan.
