India vs Pakistan: The weather was cloudy for the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup India vs Pakistan group match scheduled to be played on February 15 at the R Premedasa Stadium in Colombo. Pakistan announced their participation in the tournament through a social media post on Sunday, but Pakistan denied playing against their old rivals. The decision was taken after Bangladesh’s withdrawal from the T20 World Cup.

The Bengal Tigers were removed from the tournament after the International Cricket Council (ICC) rejected their proposal to move the match from India due to “security concerns”. The India vs Pakistan match has always been a hot topic in the cricket world, but now it is making headlines for the wrong reasons outside cricket. Former cricketers and experts have expressed their views on the matter. Cricketers like Harbhajan Singh, Shahid Afridi and Danish Kaneria have expressed their views on the matter.

Kapil Dev weighs in on the rift between India and Pakistan

Former India captain and World Cup winner Kapil Dev is the latest to join the list and he gave an exclusive interview to NDTV, during which he was asked to share his insights. If this boycott decision comes from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), it will ultimately harm Pakistan’s reputation and also the future of the country’s current and upcoming cricketers.

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Speaking to NDTV, Kapil Dev said, “If the decision is taken by the players, they can come forward and say it. But if the board says you will not play, the country’s reputation will go down.”

“It’s not looking bright for Pakistan. You are killing a generation. Pakistan has given us great talent over the years. But if you don’t allow these boys to play in the World Cup, then you are killing a generation and damaging the sport. You are not fair to your own players.”

PCB’s stance has not changed yet

The ICC expressed its views on Pakistan’s selective approach to the game after the Pakistani government posted on social media as they believed it was not possible.

They also suggested that they change their stance on the India-Pakistan match as it could have a long-term impact on their cricket in the country.

Indian and Pakistani fans suffered injustice

Kapil Dev feels this is unfair to the fans as both fans are eagerly waiting for this match. However, this will have a bigger impact on Pakistan cricket as they may lose fans and supporters if they do not change their stance on the boycott.

The former India captain concluded: “The mood and the audience will be affected. But, in the long run, no one will miss them. People don’t think about it in the long term and they will eventually move on.”

The India-Pakistan match generated broadcast revenue of close to Rs 200-250 crore, twice that of any other match in the ICC tournament. Pakistan are winless in their last five encounters against their old rivals in all major tournaments. According to reports, the ICC will hold an emergency meeting to discuss the India-Pakistan match.

Also read: Shahid Afridi heartbroken as Pakistan boycotts India 2026 T20 World Cup clash