Sri Lanka Cricket Appeals to Pakistan to Reconsider T20 World Cup Boycott Decision
NEW DELHI: In a significant development, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has formally written to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) urging it to reconsider its decision to boycott the highly anticipated India versus Pakistan fixture at the T20 World Cup 2026. The match is scheduled for February 15 at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo.
Formal Letter Highlights Financial and Logistical Concerns
The two-page letter, now in possession of media outlets, emphasizes the substantial financial, logistical, and reputational consequences that Sri Lanka would face if the marquee match does not proceed as planned. SLC has reminded PCB of Sri Lanka's historical support to Pakistan during challenging periods in international cricket.
"We wish to place on record that Sri Lanka is highly anticipating the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, particularly in its capacity as a host venue for matches assigned to Sri Lanka. All commercial, operational, logistical and security-related arrangements in respect of these matches have already been finalised. This includes, inter alia, hospitality planning and the sale of match tickets," the letter stated.
Unprecedented Ticket Sales and Economic Implications
The cricket board pointed out that ticket sales for matches scheduled in Sri Lanka, especially the India-Pakistan fixture, have recorded exceptionally strong demand with tickets selling rapidly. This reflects unprecedented public interest and significant commercial expectations for Sri Lanka Cricket.
"Any non-participation in a scheduled marquee fixture of this nature would therefore have wide-ranging implications, including substantial financial exposure for SLC and the potential loss of anticipated tourism inflows and broader economic benefits arising from heightened international interest in the tournament," the letter elaborated.
Historical Context of Sri Lanka's Support to Pakistan
SLC highlighted Sri Lanka's consistent support to Pakistan cricket during difficult times, recalling that Sri Lanka became the first team to play a Test match in Pakistan after a decade-long gap following the 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan team bus in Lahore. Six Sri Lankan players were wounded in that incident when gunmen opened fire on their team convoy.
"In this context, we respectfully recall that Sri Lanka Cricket and the Sri Lanka National Team have, on several occasions, toured Pakistan and participated in international fixtures notwithstanding exceptionally challenging and sensitive circumstances, including serious security-related incidents," SLC noted in the letter.
Tourism Sector Already Feeling the Impact
Reports from Sri Lankan media indicate that the country's tourism and hospitality sector has already begun experiencing negative effects from Pakistan's reported decision to skip the February 15 match. Widespread hotel booking cancellations have been reported across several Colombo-based properties, signaling early economic repercussions.
Appeal for Reciprocity and Sportsmanship
The letter made a heartfelt appeal for reciprocity, stating: "In light of this longstanding support and cooperation, SLC respectfully expects the same spirit of reciprocity and mutual respect to prevail, particularly where the matches in question are scheduled to be played in Sri Lanka, a country that has extended every assurance with regard to security, neutrality and professionalism."
SLC earnestly requested PCB to reconsider any boycott decision, taking into account the exceptional circumstances, the enduring relationship between the two boards, and the broader interests of cricket worldwide.
Pakistan Government's Official Stance
This appeal comes after the Pakistani government announced on Sunday that its men's cricket team would participate in the ICC World T20 2026 but would not take the field against arch-rivals India on February 15. The government statement did not provide specific reasons behind this selective boycott decision.
The Sri Lankan cricket board has expressed hope for a positive response from PCB, emphasizing that the participation of both teams would benefit the tournament, its stakeholders, and millions of cricket fans globally who eagerly await this historic rivalry.
