Last Updated on March 30, 2026 by Yash Saini
Ever since Pakistan announced that they are boycotting the T20 World Cup 2026 match against India, reactions have been pouring in from public figures and cricket greats on both sides. In every ICC or ACC event, fans all across the globe wait for the India–Pakistan match; this time, Salman Ali Agha’s team has been advised not to take part in the match against India by the Pakistan government. The match is scheduled for 15 February 2026. Pakistan claims that it is standing in solidarity with the Bangladesh team after their ICC exclusion.
On Sunday, 1 February 2026, the Pakistan government announced the decision not to participate in the match against India. Since then, many cricketing icons and public figures have shared their views on it. Many Pakistani greats like Mohammad Yousaf and Shahid Afridi have expressed their regrets over the call, but are still standing with the government’s decision.
Indian legends like Sunil Gavaskar and Harbhajan Singh, however, aren’t taking the decision of Pakistan seriously at all.
How Cricket Legends and Public Figures Reacted to Pakistan’s India Boycott
Shahid Afridi: “I’ve always believed cricket can open doors when politics closes them. Regrettably, Pakistan won’t play India at the #T20WorldCup, but I stand behind my government’s decision. This is the moment for @ICC to lead and prove through decisions, not statements, that it is impartial, independent, and fair to every member.”
Also Read: Top Batters with Most Runs in India vs Pakistan T20 Matches
Shashi Tharoor: “I think we need to really need to come to an understanding that sports, especially a sport like Cricket which means so much to all the people, should be a means of bringing us together at least on the playing field, rather than allowing this to go on like this. I honestly think this is now a wake up call for all concerned to contact each other on an emergency basis, the ICC could be the platform for it – just say, let’s call off this nonsense. You can’t go on like this forever,” Tharoor added.
Also Read: T20 World Cup 2026 Stadiums: Possible Venues for India vs Pakistan and the Final
Sunil Gavaskar: “I think in the next four or five days, when reactions start pouring in from across the world and even from their former players, there is a possibility that Pakistan will change their stance. What’s new in this? We all know Pakistan cricketers retire and then, four days later, take back their retirement, saying ‘our fans told us to play more’. This might happen again.”
Mohammad Yousaf: “A tough but necessary stand by our government. Principles must come before commercial interests. The ‘selective’ influence in world cricket needs to end for the game to truly be global.”
Harbhajan Singh: “Just wait for the ICC to do justice. There is a possibility that you will face sanctions, fines, and maybe you won’t get to host an ICC tournament ever again.”
Also Read: International Cricket Council Names Umpires for T20 World Cup 2026 Group Stage
R Ashwin: “An India Pakistan clash even in the knockout is ruled out? Sure? We get there it will be a ‘World T 20 bye’?”
Madan Lal: “They are all damaging their own cricket. It’s not going to solve their problems. Someone has to be there to think right. They are not thinking right at the moment.”
