Pakistan has announced it will participate in the Twenty20 World Cup but will boycott its match against India. The decision, revealed on Sunday, February 1, 2026, follows days of speculation regarding Pakistan's participation in the tournament, which is co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.

The Pakistani government has approved the national team's participation in the tournament, but stated that the team "shall not take the field" for their February 15th fixture against India in Colombo. The government conveyed this decision through an official statement. While the specific reason for opting out of the match against India wasn't detailed, the decision is viewed as a political protest. This protest is reportedly linked to Bangladesh's removal from the tournament after the International Cricket Council (ICC) declined their request to move matches from India to Sri Lanka due to security concerns. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had previously expressed solidarity with Bangladesh and suggested it would reassess its participation following the ICC's decision.

The decision has sparked debate and is expected to have repercussions. It also comes amid already heightened political tensions in the region.

Mohsin Naqvi, chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board, had indicated the team might withdraw completely after Bangladesh was removed from the competition for refusing to play matches in India, citing political tensions and security concerns. Naqvi accused the ICC of double standards and favoring India, stating a final decision would be made after consulting with the government.

It is unclear what ramifications Pakistan might face for boycotting the match. According to previous ICC rules, the match could be considered conceded or awarded to the opposition. Moreover, Pakistan's net run-rate would be negatively affected by forfeiting the match.

The ICC has not yet released an official statement but there are unconfirmed reports of internal discussions regarding the situation. Some reports suggest the ICC is obligated to ensure an India-Pakistan fixture due to media rights deals.