DUBAI: Pakistan’s decision to skip its scheduled T20 World Cup match against India will still require the Indian team to travel to Sri Lanka and formally present itself at the venue, in line with International Cricket Council match protocols, officials said.
Government sources confirmed on Sunday that Pakistan will participate in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup but will not take the field for the February 15 fixture against India, following a meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi.
Authorities said the move was taken as a protest over what they described as unequal treatment in regional cricket matters, including recent developments involving Bangladesh.
The Pakistan–India match was scheduled to be played in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Despite Pakistan’s withdrawal, India must still follow International Cricket Council procedures to be awarded the points, Indian cricket board sources said.
Under ICC regulations, the team claiming a walkover must arrive at the venue on match day, complete official activities including training and media duties, and wait for the opposing side until the match referee formally declares the fixture abandoned.
Only after that process can India be credited with the two competition points.
Officials said the Indian squad will travel to Colombo on February 15, conduct scheduled practice, attend press obligations and report to the stadium as required.
Pakistan’s withdrawal means it will forfeit the match points, while India stands to gain two points once the no-show is officially recorded.
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup begins on February 7. Pakistan’s group also includes Namibia, the Netherlands and the United States.
Further clarification on Pakistan’s remaining fixtures is expected in the coming days.
