Shahid Afridi Breaks Silence on Pakistan’s Strategic Boycott from India Clash in T20 WC 2026

The cricketing scene in South Asia also witnessed a fresh development on Monday, when former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi expressed his opinion on the government's decision to boycott the group-stage match against India. 

The match that is planned to take place on 15 February now takes centre stage in both political and sporting debates in the build-up to the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026.

On Sunday, PCB officials stated that Pakistan will participate in the 20-team tournament, but it will not face India. This is a major move following a high-level meeting between Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. 

Afridi’s Stance on Cricket and Diplomacy

Taking to the social media platform X, Shahid Afridi offered a nuanced reaction to the unfolding drama. Known for his passionate views on the game, the former all-rounder reflected on the potential of international cricket to serve as a diplomatic tool. 

“I’ve always believed cricket can open doors when politics closes them. It’s regrettable that Pakistan won’t play India at the T20 World Cup, but I stand behind my government’s decision,” Afridi stated. 

Beyond the immediate boycott, Afridi turned his attention to the governing body of the sport. He emphasized that the ICC leadership must move beyond rhetoric to ensure all member nations are treated with equity.

“This is the moment for the ICC to lead and prove, through decisions rather than statements, that it is committed to fairness,” he added. 

As the tournament approaches, the cricketing world remains on edge, waiting to see how this unprecedented boycott will impact the tournament's structure and the future of the sport's greatest rivalry.