Pakistan captain Salman Ali Aga has spoken openly about the Pakistan government’s decision to boycott the match against India in the T20 World Cup 2026. Speaking at the captains’ meeting in Colombo, he said the decision completely depends on the government and the players will abide by whatever decision they take.
India and Pakistan have been placed in Group A of the T20 World Cup 2026, which will be held in India and Sri Lanka. Pakistan will play all its matches including the knockout matches in Sri Lanka. On Sunday, the Pakistan government announced that the team will not play the match against India on 15 February.
India’s game is not out of control – Salman Ali Aga
Speaking in Colombo on Thursday, Salman Ali Aga said players have no role in deciding whether they face India or not. He said that the team is focusing on its remaining three matches and is excited about the tournament ahead.
“Indian sport is not under our control. It is the government’s decision and we respect it. Whatever they say, we will do,” Aga told reporters in Colombo on Thursday.As quoted by TOI. “And then, we have three other games, and we’re very excited about that.”
India’s game is not out of control – Salman Ali Aga
When asked about a possible clash with India in the semi-finals or final, Salman Ali Aga avoided giving a direct answer. He said such decisions are not taken by the team and will again depend on the government’s guidance. Agha said that the players will follow whatever advice is given.
“India’s game is not under our control. It was the government’s decision and then, if we have to play them in the semi-finals or the final, we have to go back to them and work on their advice,” Aga said.
“There are three other games they can come and watch,” he said with a laugh.
Pakistan set to open T20 World Cup 2026 against Netherlands
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif supported the government’s call to boycott the February 15 match against India, calling the decision justified. Pakistan, led by Salman Ali Aga, will face Namibia, Netherlands and United States of America (USA) in the group stage.
Pakistan will begin their campaign against Netherlands on Saturday, February 7 at the Sinhalese Sports Club, Colombo. The Men in Green made an early exit from the 2024 T20 World Cup after losses to India and USA. They will be expected to perform better this year and reach the knockouts.
The team will enter the tournament in strong form after defeating Australia by 111 runs on Sunday to clinch the T20 series 3-0. They will try to take full advantage of that confidence in the World Cup.
Also read: “It’s a pity that Bangladesh is not playing”: Salman Ali Aga reignites controversy over T20 WC 2026
