Pakistan’s decision to boycott its high-profile match against India in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup has triggered strong reactions from Indian cricket commentators, media, and fans. Many critics in India blamed the Modi government for dragging politics into cricket, arguing that the move has damaged the spirit of the game and the tournament’s global appeal.
India-Pakistan Clash Absence Seen as Major Tournament Setback
The absence of an India-Pakistan match is widely viewed as a serious blow to the T20 World Cup. An encounter between the two rivals traditionally ranks among the biggest attractions in international cricket, drawing massive global audiences. Analysts in India warned that the boycott could significantly reduce excitement, commercial value, and international interest in the tournament.
India’s opposition leader Shashi Tharoor strongly criticised the politicisation of cricket and urged stakeholders to engage in urgent dialogue. He said sports, especially cricket, should unite people rather than deepen political divides. Tharoor also highlighted the controversy surrounding Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman, who was denied an Indian Premier League contract, calling the decision unfortunate and politically motivated.
Tharoor warned that the situation had spiralled out of control, noting that Pakistan’s boycott appeared to signal solidarity with Bangladesh. He stressed that political interference risked long-term damage to cricketing ties in South Asia and called for immediate communication among all concerned parties.
Media Debate Grows Over Sporting and Political Fallout
Indian media analysed Pakistan’s decision from both political and sporting perspectives. While commentators acknowledged that sports should remain separate from politics, many argued that strained India-Pakistan relations had made such outcomes increasingly inevitable.
The media also expressed concern about the long-term future of the India-Pakistan rivalry, a highlight of global tournaments for decades. Pakistan, which will play its matches in Sri Lanka, stands to forfeit two points by boycotting the India match. Meanwhile, uncertainty remains over how authorities would handle a potential knockout-stage meeting.
The development reflects ongoing bilateral tensions, which also surfaced during last year’s Asia Cup in Dubai.
