Pakistan has dropped its first indication of a possible rethink on its decision to boycott the high-profile T20 World Cup match against India, following a formal request from Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC). The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is expected to consult the Pakistani government again after Sri Lanka warned that the absence of the India-Pakistan clash would lead to significant financial losses and damage the image of the tournament. Sri Lanka is co-hosting the T20 World Cup along with India, with the marquee encounter scheduled for February 15 in Colombo.

While the Pakistani government has permitted the national team to travel to Sri Lanka for the tournament, it has so far barred the team from playing India — the most commercially valuable fixture for the ICC and global broadcasters.

According to sources, SLC has formally communicated to the PCB that missing the India-Pakistan match would severely affect gate revenue, hospitality sales, and overall tournament interest in Sri Lanka. The appeal reportedly emphasized the strong diplomatic and cricketing ties between the two countries.

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PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has been directly contacted by SLC president Shammi Silva, who urged Pakistan to “step up” at a time when Sri Lanka needs support to ensure the tournament’s success. Naqvi has assured Silva that the request will be taken to the Pakistani government for consideration.

Sources dismissed media reports claiming Pakistan had already rejected Sri Lanka’s appeal, stating that Naqvi was out of the country and would raise the issue with the Prime Minister upon his return. A final decision is expected by Monday.

The report also noted Sri Lanka’s past support for Pakistan, recalling that in November last year, the Sri Lankan government intervened to ensure its players completed a tour of Pakistan despite security concerns — a gesture now being cited as a reason for Pakistan to reciprocate. Pakistan are set to play all their World Cup matches in Colombo and Pallekele, beginning with their opening fixture against the Netherlands.

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