The Pakistan government approved its men’s cricket team on Sunday to compete in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, but prohibited them from playing against India on February 15 in Colombo.
“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,” the Pakistan government posted on social media.
If Pakistan do boycott the match, it will be the fifth instance of an international cricket team not playing a World Cup match.
When Teams Boycotted World Cup Games:
1996 World Cup – Sri Lanka vs Australia
In 1996, just weeks before the Cricket World Cup, a devastating terrorist attack in Sri Lanka raised significant security concerns. On January 31, a truck loaded with explosives rammed into the Central Bank in Colombo, resulting in numerous casualties. With several World Cup matches scheduled in Sri Lanka, visiting teams feared for their safety. Despite security assurances, Australia decided against travelling to Colombo. Consequently, Sri Lanka was awarded a walkover victory, securing important points in the tournament.
1996 World Cup – Sri Lanka vs West Indies
Similarly, the West Indies also declined to play their scheduled match in Sri Lanka due to safety worries, despite assurances of maximum security and the International Cricket Council (ICC) deeming the country safe for matches. Sri Lanka received another walkover, but both Australia and the West Indies were fined by cricket authorities for their refusal to play.
2003 World Cup – Zimbabwe vs England
During the 2003 World Cup, Zimbabwe was embroiled in political turmoil under Robert Mugabe’s regime. British Prime Minister Tony Blair advised England’s team not to travel to Zimbabwe due to safety and political concerns. Although a request to change the venue was made, the ICC refused. Zimbabwe was therefore awarded a walkover and four points, a decision that proved costly for England as Zimbabwe advanced to the next round while England was eliminated.
2003 World Cup – Kenya vs New Zealand
In the same tournament, New Zealand also faced security issues and decided not to travel to Kenya for their scheduled match. After assessing the situation and consulting with officials, the New Zealand Cricket Board determined the risks were too great. Consequently, Kenya was awarded the match points, aiding them in making a historic run to the semifinals.
