PCB got ultimatum from Sri Lanka, putting Naqvi on the back foot; new twist in the boycott controversy

The drama surrounding Pakistan's participation in the T20 World Cup 2026 shows no signs of ending. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is once again going to consult its government. This consultation will be regarding the boycott of the India-Pakistan match scheduled for February 15 in Colombo, a decision that Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has appealed to them to reconsider.

The Pakistani government has given the PCB permission to send a team to play in the T20 World Cup, but has prohibited them from playing against India. This is the same match that is considered the most lucrative encounter for the ICC and its broadcasters.

Why is Sri Lanka Cricket worried?

Sri Lanka Cricket fears financial losses due to the absence of the India-Pakistan match. Sri Lanka Cricket has sent an email to the PCB stating that if this big match on February 15 does not take place:

* There will be a huge loss in ticket sales (gate money)

* Revenue from hospitality and sponsorships will decrease

* The image of the tournament in Sri Lanka will also be damaged

Sri Lanka is co-hosting this T20 World Cup with India.

Pakistan and Sri Lanka relations

Pakistan will play all its matches in Colombo and Pallekele. Its first match is against the Netherlands on Saturday. A source familiar with the matter said that Pakistan and Sri Lanka have always had good and close relations at both the government and cricket levels. Therefore, Sri Lanka Cricket's email cannot be simply ignored.

Will the Pakistani government change its decision?

According to the source, Mohsin Naqvi has assured Shammi Silva that he will present the matter to the Pakistani government and then respond. He clarified that the reports circulating in the media that Pakistan had already rejected Sri Lanka's appeal are false.

The source said, "The PCB chairman was not in the country since yesterday and is returning today. He will present this email regarding ending the boycott of the match against India to the Prime Minister. A decision on this issue may be taken by Monday."

Sri Lanka had supported Pakistan before

The source also recalled that in November last year, the Sri Lankan government had openly supported Pakistan. At that time, some Sri Lankan players wanted to leave the Pakistan tour midway due to security concerns, but both the Sri Lanka Cricket Board and the Sri Lankan government instructed the players to complete the white-ball series in Pakistan.