The fallout from Pakistan’s last-minute decision to boycott its February 15 T20 World Cup group-stage match against India in Colombo is already rippling through the tournament’s host nation. Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), which had anticipated significant revenue from ticket sales, sponsorships and tourism linked to the high-profile clash, is increasingly concerned about the financial consequences of the standoff.
During an executive committee meeting on Tuesday, SLC decided it would formally approach the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and urge it to reconsider its decision not to play India in the marquee Group A fixture.
According to insiders quoted by NDTV, Sri Lanka Cricket fears that a no-match scenario would severely dent its revenue projections and have a wider economic impact. Colombo is currently fully booked with fans, officials and tourists expected to arrive for the India-Pakistan encounter — traditionally one of the most lucrative fixtures in world cricket.
Officials warned that if the match does not take place, it could also affect ICC funding linked to broadcast commitments, which would in turn impact revenues for member boards and associate nations.
SLC sources also pointed out that the board expects reciprocity from Pakistan, recalling how Sri Lanka had supported international cricket in Pakistan by touring the country during periods when security conditions were considered challenging.
Meanwhile, India have made it clear that they remain fully committed to playing the fixture as scheduled. India T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav reiterated the team’s position during the captains’ media briefing in Colombo on Thursday.
“Our mindset is clear — we will play. Our flight is booked, and we are going. Rest, they can see for themselves. Their decision is not in my control,” Suryakumar said, as quoted by the ICC. “We played Asia Cup (2025), we played them (Pakistan) at a neutral venue. We are ready and going to Colombo. We have been told we have a game on 15th Feb.”
Acknowledging the complexity of the situation, he added, “It is a difficult situation for Pakistan, but I can’t be taking the decision for them.”
Pakistan had earlier announced its boycott of the India fixture in solidarity with Bangladesh’s decision not to travel to India for the tournament, a move that has since drawn criticism and concern from multiple stakeholders.
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to run from February 7 to March 8. India begin their campaign against the USA on February 7 and are set to play their second group match on February 12, ahead of the much-anticipated clash with Pakistan on February 15 at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.