T20 World Cup 2026: Former India star slams Pakistan’s boycott threat, calls it 'political drama'

The Pakistan government’s recent statement that it will not move forward with the match against India in the upcoming T20 World Cup has sparked strong reactions among cricket fans, both at home and abroad. The announcement, made through official government social media handles, triggered criticism from former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh, who questioned Pakistan’s priorities and concern for its own supporters.

Following Bangladesh’s exit from the ongoing ICC-related dispute, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi reportedly held discussions with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. While Pakistan was not directly involved in the Bangladesh–ICC issue, the country chose to express solidarity with Bangladesh by floating the idea of boycotting the India match. Harbhajan Singh believes this stance is driven more by political signaling than by cricketing logic.

Notably, the statement on Sunday came from the Government of Pakistan, not from the PCB itself. The board has yet to formally communicate any such decision to the International Cricket Council (ICC). Taking note of this, Harbhajan openly challenged PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi to actually follow through on the boycott threat during the T20 World Cup 2026.

Also Read: T20 World Cup 2026: Former Pakistan captain voices disappointment as team set to skip India clash

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Harbhajan questioned the intent behind the move. He argued that the decision appeared to be an attempt to project toughness rather than a well-thought-out stand. According to him, Pakistan is trying to create an impression of backing Bangladesh, without considering the disappointment it would cause among millions of Pakistani fans who eagerly wait for India–Pakistan clashes.

Harbhajan also pointed out what he called a contradiction in Pakistan’s approach. Despite strained political relations with India in the past, Pakistan still played against India multiple times during the Asia Cup 2025, largely because of the financial and commercial benefits involved. In his view, cricket continued then because revenue mattered.