India-Pakistan Cricket Match Boycotted Over Government Ban

The upcoming Twenty20 World Cup faces an unprecedented crisis as Pakistan's government has refused permission for its national cricket team to compete against India. This scheduled February 15 encounter in Colombo is now under threat, potentially marking the first major International Cricket Council tournament in 14 years without this highly anticipated clash. The Pakistan Cricket Board has been urged by the ICC to explore a resolution that safeguards all stakeholder interests.

Pakistan's captain stated that the team will adhere to governmental directives regarding the match. This decision reportedly stems from support for the Pakistan Cricket Board's stance after the ICC denied Bangladesh's request to relocate matches due to security concerns in India. The tournament structure sees 20 teams divided into four groups, with the top two advancing to the Super Eights, followed by semifinals on March 4-5 and the final on March 8. India is set to host matches in five major cities, while co-host Sri Lanka will stage Pakistan's games.

Group stages feature significant matches, including Pakistan's contests against associate nations Netherlands, Namibia, and the United States. The U.S. notably defeated Pakistan in the previous T20 World Cup in 2024. Defending champions India, after a strong series win against New Zealand, are considered favorites. Australia, Sri Lanka, Ireland, Oman, and Zimbabwe form another competitive group. England and West Indies are expected to advance from their group, which also includes debutants Italy, Nepal, and Scotland. Afghanistan, New Zealand, and South Africa are pooled together, with Afghanistan's spin attack being a notable strength.