In a bold response to Pakistan’s decision to boycott their T20 World Cup 2026 league match against India, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav clarified that the team is fully prepared and has not refused to play. Speaking at the Captains’ Day press conference in Mumbai on Thursday, Yadav emphasized that flights to Colombo are booked, and the Indian squad is set to travel as per schedule.
The highly anticipated clash, originally slated for February 15 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, has been thrown into uncertainty by Pakistan’s government directive. Despite all of Pakistan’s matches being hosted in Sri Lanka under the joint India-Sri Lanka event, Islamabad has instructed its team to skip the game against India. Group A features fierce rivals India and Pakistan alongside Namibia, Netherlands, and the United States.
‘We haven’t refused to play Pakistan; it’s they who have backed out,’ Yadav stated firmly. ‘Our mindset is clear. The ICC has released the official schedule, BCCI and the government have finalized a neutral venue with them. Our flights to Colombo are booked, so we’re definitely going. The team has discussed it – we’ll play our first match on February 7 and then head there.’
This standoff comes amid ongoing tensions, following ICC’s replacement of Bangladesh with Scotland due to security concerns in India. Pakistan’s Prime Minister reiterated on Wednesday that the senior men’s team will not face India in the tournament. ICC has expressed deep concerns over selective participation, stressing that global events demand full commitment from all qualified teams on equal terms.
As the cricket world watches, Yadav’s comments signal India’s unwavering commitment to the spirit of the game, leaving the ball in Pakistan’s court. Fans eagerly await whether diplomacy or further boycotts will shape this blockbuster encounter.