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ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s decision to boycott the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 fixture against India, scheduled to be played on February 15, insisting that politics must not interfere in sports.
While addressing a meeting of the federal cabinet, the premier backed the government’s stance of preventing the national team from taking the field against their arch-rivals, describing the move as a “carefully deliberated and appropriate decision” in response to what he termed the growing politicisation of cricket.
“We have taken a clear stand regarding the T20 World Cup that we will not play the match against India,” Sharif said, stressing that sports should remain free from political influence.
He added that the decision was made after thorough consultation at the highest level.
The prime minister also expressed support for Bangladesh in the ongoing controversy surrounding the tournament.
Bangladesh were replaced by Scotland in the T20 World Cup after requesting their matches be shifted from India to Sri Lanka due to security concerns.
According to government sources, the development played a key role in Islamabad reassessing its participation in the 20-team global event.
Officials in Pakistan have perceived the ICC’s handling of the Bangladesh situation as biased, further straining confidence in the governing body.
The controversy intensified after Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman was released by the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Kolkata Knight Riders, reportedly following directives from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
The move, coupled with the ICC’s subsequent decision regarding Bangladesh’s participation, was viewed by Pakistani authorities as politically influenced.
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