Pakistan has confirmed that it will boycott the highly anticipated match against India in the T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled for February 15. The match is to be played at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, but if Pakistan maintains its boycott stance, the "biggest match" will have to be canceled. However, if the match is canceled, should the Indian team still travel to Sri Lanka knowing that the match won't take place?
Pakistan will forfeit the match against India and lose two points. To claim these two points, the Indian team, captained by Suryakumar Yadav, will have to travel to Sri Lanka and arrive at the match venue on time. Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav will have to be present on the field for the toss at the scheduled time, and if Pakistan's captain, Salman Ali Agha, does not show up for the toss, the match referee will award the match and two points to India.
Why would Captain Surya go for the toss despite Pakistan boycott?
According to the International Cricket Council, a team only receives the full two points if it is present on the field and ready to play at the scheduled time. Whether the opposing team arrives or not, registering their presence is mandatory. This is why Team India must travel to Sri Lanka.
At the scheduled time, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav will come onto the field for the toss. If the Pakistani captain does not appear for the toss, the match referee will award the match to India. India will then receive the full two points. This is not just a formality, but a crucial part of the tournament rules.
What are the ICC rules?
The ICC rules also state that a team that refuses to play faces serious consequences. According to the ICC Playing Conditions, being present on the field is mandatory for a walkover victory. The team must arrive on time, warm up, and participate in the toss. If the opposing team fails to show up, the match referee makes the final decision.
This involves not only points but also the net run rate. In Pakistan's case, it would be assumed that they played all 20 overs and scored zero runs. This would severely impact their net run rate, potentially weakening their position in the tournament.
Will action be taken against Pakistan?
The situation regarding the ICC's action against Pakistan remains unclear. No formal sanctions have been announced yet, but the ICC has stated that such actions damage the credibility of cricket. It is believed that if Pakistan maintains its stance, further and stricter measures could be taken against them.
Also Read: India team record in the Under-19 World Cup final
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