Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) formally requested the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Friday to reconsider its decision to boycott the match against India at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
According to a NDTV report, in a letter addressed to the PCB, SLC stressed that all operational, logistical, security, and commercial arrangements for the World Cup matches in Sri Lanka have already been finalised, including hospitality planning and ticket sales. The India–Pakistan match, one of the most anticipated fixtures of the tournament, is expected to generate substantial revenue, and SLC stands to incur major financial losses if it is called off.
SLC also appealed to Pakistan by recalling Sri Lanka’s longstanding support during difficult periods, notably being among the first major cricketing nations to tour Pakistan following the 2009 Lahore attack on the Sri Lankan team. The letter highlighted that Sri Lanka honoured its commitments despite serious security concerns and personal trauma suffered by players and officials.
“Notwithstanding exceptionally challenging and sensitive circumstances, SLC remained steadfast in its support of Pakistan and international cricket,” the letter stated, underlining the spirit of solidarity shown when other teams were reluctant to tour Pakistan.
