New Delhi: Former Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has predicted that Pakistan will eventually play against India in the T20 World Cup 2026. Scheduled to clash on February 15, Pakistan had announced it would boycott the match, but Ashwin believes history suggests a reversal is likely.
Pakistan has a track record of changing its stance under pressure, and Ashwin warns that not playing could bring significant consequences. Here are five notable occasions when Pakistan took a U-turn:
1. Asia Cup 2025 – Match Against UAE
During the Asia Cup 2025, India refused to shake hands with Pakistan. In response, Pakistan threatened not to play against UAE unless the match referee was changed. Despite their warning, Pakistan ultimately played the match as scheduled.
2. Champions Trophy – Indian Flag in Karachi
During the Champions Trophy, all participating teams’ flags were displayed at Karachi Stadium except India’s. Following the controversy, Pakistan reversed its decision and ensured India’s flag was also displayed.
3. Champions Trophy – Hybrid Hosting Model
India had refused to travel to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy. Pakistan initially declared it would not host the tournament under a hybrid model, but eventually agreed, and India played its matches in the UAE.
4. Asia Cup 2023 – Matches in Sri Lanka
Pakistan was set to host the 2023 Asia Cup. India declined to participate in Pakistan, creating tensions. When the host venue was shifted to Sri Lanka, Pakistan agreed to the hybrid arrangement and India played its matches there, including the final.
5. 2023 World Cup – India Played in Ahmedabad
For the 2023 Asia Cup, India had refused to travel to Pakistan. In retaliation, Pakistan threatened not to participate in the 2023 World Cup and initially refused to play matches in Ahmedabad. Eventually, Pakistan reversed its stance and played the matches.
Ashwin’s prediction comes amid growing speculation that Pakistan’s current boycott of India in the T20 World Cup could also see a similar reversal, keeping fans and cricket authorities on alert.
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