Speaking to the media on the sidelines of India’s preparations, Suryakumar made it clear that the decision was not in India’s hands.
India captain Suryakumar Yadav addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding a potential India vs Pakistan clash at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, clarifying that the Indian team never refused to play against their arch-rivals.
Speaking to the media on the sidelines of India’s preparations, Suryakumar made it clear that the decision was not in India’s hands.
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“We didn’t say ‘no’ to playing against Pakistan; they said ‘no’. The ICC scheduled the match, and we are fully ready to play. Our tickets are booked, and we are going to Colombo after Delhi,” the India skipper said.
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T20 World Cup 2026 | Captain Suryakumar Yadav says, “We didn’t say ‘no’ to playing against Pakistan; they said ‘no’. ICC scheduled the match, and we are ready to play. Our tickets are booked, and we are going to Colombo after Delhi.”
(File photo) pic.twitter.com/SNnieBGtia
— ANI (@ANI) February 5, 2026
The comments come amid continued uncertainty over the marquee encounter, despite both nations being part of the tournament. The ICC had earlier scheduled the match at a neutral venue in Colombo, considering logistical and political sensitivities surrounding bilateral ties.
While the off-field debate continues, Suryakumar stressed that India’s focus remains firmly on performance and preparation. Reflecting on the team’s recent form, the captain acknowledged India’s strong run but cautioned against complacency.
“I think the way we have been playing it looks like we are the favourites. But there are 19 other teams as well. Happy to be back in form,” he added.
T20 World Cup 2026 | India’s Captain Suryakumar Yadav says, “I think the way we have been playing it looks like we are the favourites. But there are 19 other teams as well. Happy to be back in form.”
(File photo) pic.twitter.com/23FLk6lHbM
— ANI (@ANI) February 5, 2026
India are set to travel to Colombo as per the original schedule, underlining their readiness to compete against any opposition placed in front of them. The lack of official clarity from Pakistan’s side has, however, kept fans and stakeholders guessing over whether the blockbuster clash will eventually take place.
With the T20 World Cup 2026 entering a decisive phase, the ICC is expected to provide further updates on the status of the fixture.
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