World Cup T20 boycott row: India ready to face Pakistan, says Captain Suryakumar Yadav

India captain Suryakumar Yadav emphasized that the team is fully prepared to face Pakistan in the Men’s T20 World Cup qualifying match on February 15. However, he questioned whether the decision-makers could ensure that the game was played in accordance with the Pakistan Government’s directive to the Pakistan Cricket Board not to field against India.

“Our mindset is quite clear. We did not say no (to playing against Pakistan). They gave in. ICC gave the fixture. We have booked our flight and we are going there (to Colombo),” Suryakumar said during the pre-tournament captains’ media interaction in Mumbai on Thursday, February 5, 2026.

“Their (Pakistan’s) decision is not in my control. I wish I could take their decision, but then it is their decision,” he added.

Last week, the Government of Pakistan announced on social media that the Pakistani team will forfeit the league match against India. While the International Cricket Council (ICC) has responded via a media statement, there has been no official dialogue between the PCB and the ICC on the fate of the competition so far.

When asked about his message to the ICC with the future of the world’s most awaited cricket fixture uncertain, Suryakumar admitted that he was not sure how much the governing body could intervene.

“I think this is not an easy task. It’s not my decision. I’m sure they might be working on something too, but since this is coming from the other government or nation, how can they (ICC) help!” Suryakumar said:

“I know it will be a difficult situation for them too. But as I said, if we are told and the fixtures are ready, we will definitely continue.”

The India captain reiterated that the team has no qualms about facing Pakistan in multi-national tournaments as has been the norm for over a decade.

“We played them three times in the Asia Cup, we played good cricket. We won (all the matches) and were very happy. Similarly, if we get an opportunity in Colombo, we will definitely play,” Suryakumar said, adding playfully: “Our flight has been booked to Colombo and we are going there.”