'Decision could change..', Gavaskar takes a swipe at Pakistan amid India match boycott row

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar believes Pakistan’s decision to skip their high-profile ICC T20 World Cup match against India may not be the final word, suggesting that public pressure could yet force a rethink.

Pakistan recently ended days of uncertainty by confirming participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, scheduled to begin on February 7. However, the move sparked fresh controversy after the Pakistani government announced that the team would forfeit their group-stage clash against India on February 15. The decision was shared through a government release on social media, without citing any specific reason.

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“The government of Pakistan grants approval to the Pakistan cricket team to participate in the Twenty20 World Cup; however, the Pakistan team shall not take the field in the match scheduled on 15th February against India,” the statement on X(formerly Twitter) said.

Gavaskar hints at possible 'U-turn'

Reacting to the development, Gavaskar said the decision could still change once global and domestic reactions begin to surface. Speaking on Aaj Tak, he remarked, “Their decision could change once the world starts reacting (to their boycott decision).”

Drawing parallels with past incidents, Gavaskar added, “There’s nothing new to this issue. Pakistani cricketers are known to make retirement U-turns, claiming their fans want them to continue.” He believes a similar situation could unfold again. “(Likewise) It’s possible that Pakistani fans may question their government about their decision. So, I don’t see any problem here. Pakistani cricketers have set the example – they make a U-turn 8–10 days after retiring. Something similar could happen before (February) 15,” he said.

The tournament, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, runs until March 8 and features 20 teams. The ICC has reportedly warned the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) of possible long-term consequences if the decision is not reconsidered.

Despite Pakistan’s current stance, India is expected to follow protocol and be present for the match in Colombo. Suryakumar Yadav is set to walk out for the toss at R. Premadasa Stadium on February 15. If Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha does not appear, the match referee will award a walkover to India.

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Uncertainty also remains over whether the Pakistan Cricket Board fully backs the government’s call. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi is expected to clarify the board’s position. “What will be interesting to see is what reason the PCB gives for the government denying them permission to play India on February 15 and whether it was a unilateral government decision or the PCB was on board as well,” a source told PTI.

Pakistan open their campaign against the Netherlands on February 7 in Group A, which also includes India, the United States and Namibia.