Pakistan’s Boycott of India T20 World Cup Match could result in Financial Loss For Sri Lanka, urged to reconsider its decision

Pakistan’s last-minute boycott of its February 15 T20 World Cup group match against India in Colombo has sparked concern among organisers, particularly Sri Lanka Cricket, which fears major financial losses from gate receipts, tourism, and broadcaster-linked ICC funding. Sri Lanka Cricket plans to urge the Pakistan Cricket Board to reconsider, citing the broader economic impact and past support it gave Pakistan during difficult touring conditions.

India, meanwhile, has confirmed it is ready to play, with captain Suryakumar Yadav stating the team will travel to Colombo as scheduled and that Pakistan’s decision is beyond India’s control. The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup runs from February 7 to March 8, with India beginning its campaign on February 7.

The highly-anticipated fixture is a major draw for fans, and broadcasters and its absence could hit ticket sales hard, particularly in Colombo, where the arch-rivals are scheduled to face each other. Pakistan had announced that its team will boycott the February 15 game, leaving uncertainty over whether the marquee clash will go ahead as scheduled.