India Hasn’t Refused Pakistan Clash, Decision Came From Their Side: Suryakumar Yadav Ahead Of T20 World Cup 2026

India’s T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav clarified on Thursday (Feb 5) that the Indian cricket team has not declined to face Pakistan in the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2026, stating that the refusal has come from Pakistan’s end. Speaking at the captains’ day press conference prior to the T20 World Cup, Suryakumar revealed that India has already secured their travel arrangements to Colombo for the Pakistan encounter, which is slated for Feb 15. The Pakistan government, however, has reportedly not permitted its national side to participate in the fixture in Colombo, though the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has yet to issue any formal communication to the International Cricket Council (ICC).

Media reports suggest the decision is connected to Pakistan’s solidarity with Bangladesh, who were eliminated from the World Cup after declining to play their scheduled matches in India, citing security apprehensions. “We haven’t refused to play against Pakistan. They have refused,” Suryakumar stated during the press conference.

“First we will play in Mumbai, then head to Delhi and then travel to Colombo. I feel their decision isn’t in my control,” Suryakumar further remarked. The T20 World Cup is set to commence on Saturday (Feb 7), with one of cricket’s most anticipated rivalries, India vs Pakistan, scheduled for Feb 15 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. As per an agreement between the BCCI and the ICC, Pakistan is expected to play all its matches in Sri Lanka.

Also Read: PM Shehbaz Sharif Reaffirms Boycott Of India Clash In T20 World Cup 2026

The ICC has also cautioned the Pakistan Cricket Board that failing to appear for such a high-profile fixture could result in sanctions, given that an India-Pakistan contest represents the premier attraction in any ICC tournament, generating enormous global viewership, substantial sponsor engagement and significant broadcasting revenues.