Pakistanis from across the cricketing spectrum have strongly rallied behind the government’s decision to boycott the T20 World Cup India match, calling it a principled stand against what they describe as biased governance in world cricket. The decision has sparked widespread debate but has also drawn firm backing from former players, analysts, and fans.
The announcement came after a high level meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. It was confirmed that Pakistan will participate in the T20 World Cup 2026, beginning on February 7, but will not play the scheduled match against India. Sources say the move was driven largely by concerns over the International Cricket Council’s treatment of Bangladesh.
According to officials familiar with the matter, the boycott aims to show solidarity with Bangladesh, who were replaced by Scotland after refusing to travel to India due to security concerns. Bangladesh had requested their matches be shifted to Sri Lanka, but the ICC rejected the proposal, a decision that many in Pakistan see as clear double standards.
Despite the ICC urging the PCB to seek a mutually acceptable resolution and warning of long term consequences, Pakistan’s cricketing community has largely welcomed the stance. Former Test great Mohammad Yousaf described it as a tough but necessary decision, stressing that principles must come before commercial interests. He added that selective influence in global cricket needs to end for the sport to truly be fair.
Former PCB chairman Najam Sethi also voiced his support, while ex wicketkeeper Rashid Latif questioned the ICC’s moral authority. He pointed out past instances where teams refused to travel or forfeited matches without facing similar scrutiny, stating that the ICC has now been checkmated by its own precedents.
Cricket analyst Sikander Bakht praised the move, citing long standing issues such as India’s refusal to engage symbolically with Pakistan on the field. He argued that Pakistan has every right to respond in kind and urged extending the boycott across all formats, including women’s and junior cricket.
On social media, fans echoed these sentiments, calling the decision a bold stand for dignity, equality, and national pride. Many believe the T20 World Cup India boycott has united Pakistanis around a shared demand for fairness in international cricket.
