T20 World Cup: What will happen as Pakistan boycott India Match?

Pakistan have confirmed that they will boycott the T20 World Cup 2026 group stage match against India, slated to be played on February 15 in Colombo.

After a long saga regarding their T20 World Cup participation, the Pakistan team is set to play the World Cup, but won't participate in the match against their arch-rivals.

"The Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan grants approval to the Pakistan Cricket Team to participate in the ICC World T20 2026, however, the Pakistan Cricket Team shall not take the field in the match scheduled on 15th February 2026 against India," a statement on X from Government of Pakistan.

What will happen if Pakistan boycott India match?

The fixture would be treated as a forfeit by Pakistan, as the team refuses to take the field. In such cases, the ICC awards a walkover

to the opposing side. India would automatically receive 2 points (the standard allocation for a win in the group stage), while Pakistan would get 0 points from the match. No result is recorded in terms of runs, wickets, or overs bowled-the game simply does not occur.

T20 World Cup 2026: Points if Pakistan don't play India

In Group A (Pakistan, India, Namibia, Netherlands, USA), where only the top two advance to the Super 8s, the impact is significant - India will gain an immediate advantage with 2 points without playing, strengthening their position in a competitive group and easing their qualification path.

Pakistan suffers a major setback, starting effectively 2 points behind in the standings. With only three other group matches (vs Netherlands on Feb 7, USA on Feb 10, Namibia on Feb 18), they would need strong wins in all remaining games.