The Government of Pakistan has granted permission for its national team to participate in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, but instructed them not to take the field for their group-stage clash against India on February 15.

Even though the ICC has made it clear that selective participation will not be allowed, Pakistan haven’t changed their stance yet. The arch-rivals are placed in Group A along with Namibia, the Netherlands and the USA.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan weighed in on the selective boycott move, stating that Pakistan might change its mind and make a 'U-turn'.

If the Men in Green fail to take the field against India, the match will be ruled a forfeit under ICC rules, resulting in an automatic loss of two points and a hit to their net run rate. Moreover, severe sanctions are likely to be imposed on PCB that could isolate Pakistan cricket.

Amid the possibility of sanctions, it is expected that PCB will backtrack from its stand in the coming days.

"In the group stages, you won't see any challenges. Pakistan has decided to boycott the match against India, but that U-turn can happen anytime now. Even if they make a U-turn, will they be able to give us a challenge?" Pathan said.

"If you look at the previous World Cup or previous matches between India and Pakistan, it does not look like Pakistan can challenge India. Not once or twice, India have beaten Pakistan thrice in the 2025 Asia Cup. India have total dominance over them," he added.

Meanwhile, India skipper Suryakumar Yadav on Thursday (February 5) confirmed that the team will travel to Colombo for the marquee fixture, regardless of Pakistan's decision.

On the other hand, Pakistan captain Salman Agha has said the team will abide by the government's instructions.

As per multiple reports, co-hosts Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has urged the PCB to reconsider their stance, which could have an adverse impact on tourism in the island nation.

Pakistan’s boycott decision is being seen as an act of solidarity with Bangladesh after their removal from the 20-tournament for refusing to travel to India citing 'security concerns'.

The India versus Pakistan fixture is estimated to generate a substantial portion of the tournament's global sponsorship and broadcast revenue. By targeting this particular match, Pakistan aim to hit the ICC where it is most vulnerable. However, the consequences could leave the country's cricket board in financial ruin.