Colombo, February 5: The Pakistan government has announced its decision to boycott the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup match against India scheduled to take place in Colombo on February 15. This high-stakes match cancellation is expected to result in significant financial losses for Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), which has communicated its concerns to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in a formal letter.
The T20 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, is set to commence on February 7. Reports indicate that the co-hosts are planning to raise the issue of potential economic losses with the PCB.
In its letter, SLC highlighted the extensive arrangements that had already been made for the match and noted that there have been widespread cancellations of hotel bookings in Colombo, adversely affecting the tourism sector. The letter also recalled Pakistan’s past support for Sri Lanka during difficult times and urged reconsideration of the decision.
However, a former Pakistani cricketer dismissed SLC’s concerns, stating that the matter is now in the hands of the ICC. He remarked, “If Sri Lanka Cricket writes to the Pakistan Cricket Board, what difference will it make? The PCB has been instructed by the Pakistan government not to play against India in Colombo. Requesting PCB to play on February 15, citing economic losses, will not help.”
The postponement of the India-Pakistan match is poised to have a substantial impact on tourism in Sri Lanka. SLC has decided to bring this issue before the International Cricket Council (ICC) as well.
Reports suggest that due to advance bookings for this high-profile match, Colombo hotels had seen a surge in reservations. With the match now in doubt, cancellations are expected to rise.
Airlines may also face pressure as special travel plans surrounding this marquee match are being reconsidered. Tour operators and local businesses, which had prepared for an increase in visitor numbers, now face potential losses. Industry experts have warned that if the situation is not resolved, the tourism sector, a crucial part of Sri Lanka’s economy, could suffer significantly. Therefore, Sri Lanka Cricket is taking action, with the information sent to the PCB being the first step in seeking shared responsibility for the financial burden.