There is suspense regarding the much-awaited match between India and Pakistan in the 2026 T20 World Cup. Meanwhile, former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has given a big statement, in which he has claimed that Pakistan will soon change its decision of not playing against India, and the match to be held on February 15 will take place as per schedule. The Pakistani government has given permission to its team to participate in the T20 World Cup, but not specifically for the match against India. For this reason, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken the stance of boycotting the match against India. However, ICC has questioned Pakistan’s stance and made it clear that such a move could have serious consequences for them.
Will Pakistan change its decision?
There is tension regarding the India-Pakistan match, while only 11 days are left in this high-voltage match. Ashwin is confident that Pakistan will take a U-turn in the next four to five days. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said that the IND vs PAK match will be 100%. He believes that Pakistan will change its decision in four or five days. If the match does not happen, there will be huge financial losses. Broadcasters will be dealt a major blow, and it will impact other full member countries as well. Everyone in the ICC meeting will say that the loss has happened because of Pakistan.
Possible impact on PSL players
Ashwin warned that if Pakistan boycotts the match against India, it may have to face serious consequences not only in terms of revenue but also in relation to the Pakistan Super League (PSL). He said that ICC can cancel the NOC (No Objection Certificate) given to foreign players, which can affect the entire PSL plans.
no room for excuses
Ashwin also reminded that the hybrid model for the T20 World Cup had already been decided and approved by the ICC, PCB and BCCI. Therefore, there is no scope for any dispute regarding the venue. Ashwin said that if India and Pakistan play on neutral venues, then there will be no problem regarding the venue. Refusing to play against a particular opponent is unacceptable. He hopes that a wise decision will be taken and the match will take place.
Pakistan will play warm-up match today
The special thing is that Pakistan will start its World Cup campaign against Netherlands on February 7 at 11 am. Before that, Pakistan will face Ireland in their only warm-up match today. This match will be played at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC), Colombo.