New Delhi: Pakistan continues to make headlines for controversial actions ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. The latest development: Pakistan has announced it will boycott its scheduled Group Stage match against India on February 15 in Sri Lanka. While the team has not publicly stated the reason, analysts suggest the decision is made in solidarity with Bangladesh.
Rashid Latif Comments on ICC Reaction
Former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif spoke to Hindustan Times Digital about the situation, saying:
“I believe Pakistan made this decision last week. The timing is crucial. They deliberately delayed the announcement. The T20 World Cup is just a week away, and the political scenario in Southeast Asia has completely changed.”
Latif criticized the ICC’s handling of the Bangladesh issue, adding:
“The Bangladesh matter was not managed well by ICC. There were double standards. That is why Pakistan decided to boycott the match against India. We all know this decision was not taken by the PCB—it was directed by the government. Only time will tell how things unfold.”
Highlighting the ICC’s response, Latif said:
“Usually, ICC does not react so quickly. Offices are closed on Sundays. If they specifically opened to issue a statement, it shows ICC is nervous. This could cause them damage. It’s important to note that PCB has not attacked BCCI or India directly—they have gone after the ICC. The money Pakistan receives from ICC is negligible, and their value in ICC is not recognized. Everyone knows this.”
Pakistan’s decision has once again raised questions about political interference in cricket and the potential implications for the sport’s governance in the region.
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