NEW DELHI: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday strongly denounced Pakistan's move to boycott their February 15 ICC T20 World Cup 2026 group-stage match against India, calling it "completely against the spirit of sport."
Addressing the media during the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026 final at Vadodara's BCA Stadium, BCCI joint secretary Prabhtej Singh Bhatia described Pakistan's decision as "totally wrong" and expressed confidence that the International Cricket Council (ICC) would respond with strict measures.
"This is against the sportsmanship of any sport. This is a very wrong decision by Pakistan. I am sure the ICC will take very strict action, and we will wait for the ICC's decision," Bhatia said.
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When asked about the possible measures the ICC could take against Pakistan, he added, "We can't discuss that here, but ICC is going to take decisive action for sure."
Earlier on Thursday, India T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav backed the BCCI's position, affirming that the team is fully ready for the highly anticipated clash against arch-rivals Pakistan at R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
Speaking at the captains' media briefing in Colombo, Suryakumar emphasised that India's focus and approach remain unchanged, despite Pakistan’s decision to boycott the match.
The T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled from February 7 to March 8, with India opening their campaign against the USA on February 7, followed by a group-stage match against Namibia on February 12. Group A also features the Netherlands alongside Pakistan.
