Former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh launched a scathing attack on Pakistan over its decision to boycott the India vs Pakistan clash at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, calling the move nothing more than “drama” and a show of misplaced arrogance.
Reacting strongly on his YouTube channel, Harbhajan dismissed Pakistan’s claim that skipping the match was an act of solidarity with Bangladesh, accusing the country of misleading its own people and using politics to mask financial and administrative concerns.
Pakistan barred from playing India despite T20 World Cup clearance
On Sunday, the Pakistan government clarified that while the national team has been granted permission to participate in the T20 World Cup 2026, it has been barred from taking the field against India on February 15.
The decision has triggered intense debate across the cricketing world, especially given the enormous sporting and commercial significance of an India-Pakistan fixture at an ICC event.
Harbhajan dares Pakistan to face consequences
Harbhajan did not hold back, challenging Pakistan to stand firm on its decision if it truly believes in the cause.
“What benefit are you going to get from this? This is just to show arrogance. If you really think you can do something like this, then be adamant. Let’s see if you really have the guts,” Harbhajan said.
He went on to label the boycott a manufactured narrative aimed at deceiving the public.
“This is a total drama created to mislead people into thinking that they are standing with Bangladesh. There’s no problem with that, but have you thought about the people of your country who want the India-Pakistan match to happen?” he added.
Questions over consistency and past precedents
Harbhajan also highlighted what he called Pakistan’s selective patriotism, pointing to past instances where cricket continued despite political and military tensions.
“This match was supposed to be played at a neutral venue, and there was no dispute with you. When there was a war recently, you still played the Asia Cup,” he said.
He recalled the controversy surrounding the Asia Cup trophy and venue, noting that matches eventually went ahead because of the revenue involved.
“There was drama about the trophy, but the matches happened because you were not ready to leave that revenue. If you are such a patriot, where was your patriotism then?” Harbhajan asked.
Harbhajan warns of ICC sanctions
The former India spinner expressed confidence that the ICC would step in and take strict action against Pakistan for refusing to play a scheduled match.
“Just wait for the ICC to do justice. There is a possibility that you will face sanctions, fines, and maybe you won’t get to host an ICC tournament ever again,” he asserted.
Growing pressure on ICC
With Pakistan’s boycott threatening the integrity and commercial value of the tournament, pressure is mounting on the ICC to take a clear and consistent stand. The controversy has once again exposed the fragile intersection of politics, governance, and global cricket.