'Politicisation Of Cricket World Cup': Govt Sources On Pakistan's Decision To Boycott India Match

Last Updated:February 01, 2026, 21:40 IST

According to sources, the decision came in view of the Pakistani government's stand to earn good relations with Bangladesh at the cost of a match with the Indian cricket team. 

Pakistan announced that they will participate in the T20 World Cup 2026 but will boycott the match against India. (Picture Credit: AFP)

Pakistan’s move to boycott their match against India at the T20 World Cup goes beyond cricket, exhibiting blatant politicisation of the game, according to top government sources.

According to the sources, Islamabad is uncomfortable about their India match at the group stage, especially since Pakistan had initially threatened to withdraw from the tournament in solidarity with Bangladesh.

Bangladesh refused to play their matches in India, resulting in their replacement by Scotland. Pakistan too indicated it could withdraw from the tournament. Nonetheless, the country’s government allowed their team to participate but announced the boycott of the India match.

The decision came close on the heels of Islamabad naming India for the attacks in Balochistan without any proof, a reckless allegation that has been trashed by New Delhi.

In this context, the Pakistan government is under pressure from hardliners, who see cricket as an extension of foreign policy.

The Pakistan government used solidarity with Bangladesh as a diplomatic cover, according to the sources who see the boycott move as a calculated ploy, one that politicises what is called a “Gentleman’s Game".

Their strategy is to boycott one match to satisfy the political narrative at home, but participate in the tournament to protect Pakistan cricket’s finances and rankings, according to the sources who called out the “optics".

According to the sources, the decision is also aimed at sending a signal to Dhaka at a time when Islamabad is trying to cosy up to Bangladesh, which has seen a rise in anti-India sentiment after the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024.

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