Ajinkya Rahane calls out Pakistan over their alleged threat to skip the upcoming T20 World Cup, expressing confidence that the team will not withdraw from the tournament.
Rahane stated that Pakistan, despite recent drama, is unlikely to boycott the T20 World Cup, which begins on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had suggested it might withdraw in solidarity if Bangladesh were excluded by the ICC from the tournament. Reports even speculated that Pakistan could forfeit its match against India. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed that a final decision would be announced by February 2, likely following government approval for the team’s travel to Sri Lanka.
“I don’t think they will do it. They don’t have the guts,” Rahane remarked, brushing aside Pakistan’s threat.
Naqvi’s controversial history with the PCB has added fuel to the drama. In September last year, after India defeated Pakistan in the final, Naqvi controversially left the Dubai International Cricket Stadium with the trophy after the Indian team refused to collect it from him a historic first where the winning team returned home without the silverware.
The PCB’s involvement in the ongoing dispute between the Bangladesh Cricket Board and the ICC has further complicated matters. Analysts warn that a withdrawal by Pakistan could result in severe consequences, including financial losses, potential ICC sanctions, and a possible ban from the Asia Cup.
Tensions between the PCB and BCCI have been building since the Pahalgam terror attacks last May, escalating after India refused to play Pakistan in the World Championship of Legends. Although India and Pakistan faced off as scheduled in the Asia Cup, relations remain strained, with on-field tempers and verbal exchanges reflecting the underlying friction.
Rahane’s comments suggest that, despite threats and controversies, cricket diplomacy and the significance of the World Cup make a Pakistan boycott unlikely.