Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) is facing concerns over a potential financial blow following Pakistan’s decision to boycott its high-profile T20 World Cup group match against India, scheduled for February 15 in Colombo.
The Pakistan Cricket Board’s last-minute refusal to play the fixture has already triggered alarm among organisers, as the match was expected to generate significant revenue through ticket sales, broadcasting and tourism-related income. Colombo is currently fully booked, with hotels and related services anticipating a surge of visitors for the marquee clash.
During an executive committee meeting on Tuesday, SLC decided to formally approach the PCB, urging it to reconsider the boycott. A letter to that effect was sent on Thursday.
Sources said SLC fears that if the match does not go ahead, it would not only hurt the board’s earnings but also negatively affect Sri Lanka’s broader economy. A no-match scenario could also impact funding from international broadcasters, with potential consequences for ICC revenue distribution to member boards and associate nations.
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In its letter, SLC reminded Pakistan of Sri Lanka’s past support, particularly when the island nation toured Pakistan at a time when international teams were reluctant to visit following the 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan team bus in Lahore.
SLC also warned of possible adverse effects on tourism, including hotel booking cancellations, flight disruptions and complications for logistical service providers. The board reiterated that it was fully prepared to host the sellout match at the R Premadasa Stadium.
Meanwhile, India have made it clear they are ready to proceed with the fixture. India T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav said the team’s position remains unchanged and that they are prepared to travel to Colombo as scheduled.
“Our mindset is clear. We will play. Our flight is booked and we are going,” Suryakumar said during the captains’ media briefing in Colombo on Thursday, as quoted by the ICC. “We have been told we have a game on February 15.”
He acknowledged the complexity of the situation for Pakistan but stressed that the decision ultimately lies with them.
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Pakistan had earlier announced its boycott of the match against India in support of Bangladesh’s decision not to travel to India for the tournament.
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 will run from February 7 to March 8. India begin their campaign against the United States on February 7 and are set to play their second group match on February 12.
#With inputs from NDTV