T20 World Cup 2026 has started. However, before the biggest tournament of the shortest format of cricket, the discussion has not been about the players or the game but about the off-field activities and perhaps such an impact of politics has not been seen on any World Cup before. Bangladesh pulled out of the tournament after refusing to play in India citing security reasons. At the same time, in support of its neighbor, Pakistan refused to play the match against India. There was a lot of uproar regarding this, but now a big update has come out on this. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is once again preparing to take advice from its government regarding this match. In fact, Sri Lanka Cricket had sent an email requesting that Pakistan reconsider its decision, because the cancellation of this match will affect both the image and earnings of the tournament.
Government allowed to play, but banned against India
The Pakistan government has given permission to the team to play the T20 World Cup, but has stopped it from playing the match against India. Whereas this match is considered to be the biggest attraction for ICC and broadcasters. In such a situation, it is very important economically for the hosts.
Contact PCB Chairman directly
News agency PTI quoted sources as saying that Sri Lanka Board President Shammi Silva himself has spoken to PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. A source said, ‘Pakistan has always had very close and friendly relations with Sri Lanka at government-to-government and cricket level. Therefore, their board’s mail cannot be ignored just like that.’ The source also said, ‘Mohsin Naqvi has been directly contacted by Sri Lanka Board Chairman Shammi Silva and reminded that at this time, Sri Lanka needs Pakistan’s support, because if the India-Pak match is not held, there will be a huge loss in ticket sales, hospitality and other income.’ The source said, ‘Naqvi has assured his counterpart that he will respond to him after consulting the government.’
What answer did Naqvi give?
It is being told that Mohsin Naqvi has assured his Sri Lankan counterpart that he will talk to the government on this issue. According to the source, ‘Mohsin Naqvi was not even in the country and is returning today. He will bring this email to the notice of the Prime Minister, after which a decision on this matter can be taken by Monday. It was also clarified that the reports of Pakistan rejecting Sri Lanka’s request are not true.
Reminded me of my old friendship too
Sources also reminded, ‘Last November, when some players wanted to return from Pakistan tour due to security concerns, the Sri Lankan government had directed not only the board but also the players to complete the white ball series.’ In such a situation, now Sri Lanka hopes that Pakistan will also understand their interest.
