BCCI Criticizes Pakistan's Boycott of T20 World Cup Match Against India

The BCCI has voiced strong disapproval of Pakistan's decision to boycott their upcoming T20 World Cup match against India, calling it a breach of sportsmanship. Joint Secretary Prabhtej Singh Bhatia expressed confidence that the ICC would take appropriate action. Meanwhile, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav reassured fans of the team's readiness for the match, emphasizing that their strategy remains unchanged. The T20 World Cup is set to commence soon, with India facing the USA first. Read on for more details about the tournament and the Indian squad.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 6, 2026, 03:18 IST

BCCI's Strong Reaction to Pakistan's Decision

Vadodara (Gujarat) [India], February 6: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has expressed its strong disapproval regarding Pakistan's choice to withdraw from their scheduled ICC T20 World Cup 2026 group match against India on February 15. The BCCI labeled this action as contrary to the principles of sportsmanship.

During a press interaction at the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 final held at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara, BCCI Joint Secretary Prabhtej Singh Bhatia described the decision as 'very wrong' and voiced optimism that the International Cricket Council (ICC) would impose stringent penalties.

‘This decision contradicts the spirit of sportsmanship. Pakistan's choice is indeed misguided. I am confident that the ICC will respond with strict measures, and we will await their ruling,’ Bhatia stated.

When queried about potential actions the ICC might take against Pakistan, he remarked, ‘We cannot delve into specifics here, but decisive action from the ICC is anticipated.’

Earlier on the same day, Indian T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav reiterated the BCCI's position, confirming that the Indian team is well-prepared for the expected encounter with their rivals Pakistan at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.

During the Captains’ media briefing in Colombo, Suryakumar emphasized that India's strategy remains unchanged despite Pakistan's withdrawal.

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is set to take place from February 7 to March 8, with India kicking off their tournament against the USA on February 7, followed by a match against Namibia on February 12. Group A also includes the Netherlands along with Pakistan.

The Indian team for the tournament comprises captain Suryakumar Yadav, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, and Rinku Singh.