The Pakistan government has allowed its national team to participate in the T20 World Cup 2026, but it did not give them the green light to play against arch-rivals India on February 15 in Colombo. No reason has been specified for this controversial move.

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, financial sanctions could leave the country's cricket board in ruin.

While the ICC has made it clear that selective participation will not be allowed, co-hosts Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) also urged the PCB to reconsider its stance, which could have an adverse impact on tourism in the island nation.

Amid the deadlock, a report published by PTI claims that the PCB is expected to again consult its government to decide on the Sri Lankan counterpart's request to reconsider the boycott of India fixture.

Pakistan are slated to play all their T20 World Cup fixtures in Sri Lanka under a hybrid model agreement with the BCCI and ICC till 2027.

“Obviously Pakistan has always enjoyed very close and friendly ties with Sri Lanka at the government-to-government and cricket level. So the mail from their Board can't be ignored just like that,” PTI quoted a source aware of the developments.

“Mohsin Naqvi has been contacted directly by the Sri Lankan Board President Shammi Silva and been reminded that at this time Sri Lanka need Pakistan to step up for them as without Pakistan and India matches, the Sri Lankan Board would stand to lose extra revenues from gate money, hospitality sales etc,” the source added.

The source said that PCB chief Naqvi had assured his SLC counterpart that he would consult the government and get back to him. He also refuted the media reports claiming that Pakistan had rejected Sri Lanka's request.

“PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has not even been in the country since yesterday and is due back today. He will bring the email to the notice of the Prime Minister on ending the boycott of the India match and then a decision would be made on the matter by Monday,” the source said.

He mentioned that as recently as last November, the Sri Lankan government had firmly stood with Pakistan when some of its players wanted to leave the tour of Pakistan midway due to security concerns.

“Not only the Sri Lankan Board but the government directed the players to complete the white ball tour.”

(With PTI Inputs)