UAE Cricket Board Urges Pakistan to Reconsider Boycott of India Match in T20 World Cup 2026

Dubai / Lahore – February 8, 2026 — Following Sri Lanka, the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) has become the latest cricket authority to formally request the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to reconsider its decision to boycott the high-profile India vs Pakistan match scheduled for 15 February 2026 in the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
According to reliable sources, the UAE cricket authorities have directly contacted the PCB leadership and conveyed their appeal for a review of the boycott decision. The Emirates Cricket Board has reportedly emphasized that the decision should be taken “in the best interest of cricket”, highlighting the global significance of the India–Pakistan fixture — widely regarded as one of the biggest sporting rivalries in the world.
The UAE’s intervention comes at a critical moment when back-channel diplomacy and high-level talks are underway in Lahore involving ICC Deputy Chairman Imran Khwaja and BCB President Aminul Islam, aimed at finding a resolution to the escalating crisis.
Background
Pakistan’s government and cricket board announced the boycott citing solidarity with Bangladesh (which was removed from the tournament after refusing to travel to India over security concerns) and perceived double standards by the ICC. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif publicly endorsed the decision, stating it was an expression of support for Bangladesh.
The ICC has warned of serious consequences, including potential points deduction, heavy financial penalties, and long-term reputational damage to Pakistan cricket. Several cricket boards and stakeholders have privately and now publicly expressed concern over the absence of the marquee match, which generates massive global viewership and revenue.
The UAE, which has hosted multiple Pakistan–India bilateral series in the past (notably in the UAE from 2012–2018), has historically played a neutral and facilitative role in sub-continental cricket politics. Its request is seen as an attempt to preserve the commercial and sporting integrity of the tournament.
No official statement has yet been issued by the PCB or the UAE Cricket Board confirming the communication, but sources indicate that the matter is under active consideration at the highest level within the PCB.