Overview
- Pakistan’s government has directed its team not to take the field against India on Feb. 15 in Colombo, framing the move as solidarity with Bangladesh.
- India captain Suryakumar Yadav said the squad’s flights to Colombo are booked and reiterated that India has not refused to play the match.
- Under tournament rules, India would receive a walkover if they are present for the toss at the R. Premadasa Stadium and Pakistan do not appear.
- Bangladesh were replaced by Scotland after refusing to play matches in India, with the ICC dismissing Bangladesh’s stated security concerns.
- The T20 World Cup starts Feb. 7 co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, India open against the USA in Mumbai, and Pakistan’s stance could complicate their Super 8 qualification.