India’s cricket captain confirms team will travel for T20 World Cup clash against Pakistan, who are boycotting the match in Colombo.
INDIA captain Suryakumar Yadav confirmed his team will travel to Colombo for their T20 World Cup clash against arch-rivals Pakistan, despite a Pakistani boycott.
“We haven’t said no to playing them (Pakistan),” Yadav told reporters at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium.
“They are the ones who have said no. Our flights are booked and we are going to Colombo.”
India must be present and ready to play at the stadium for the February 15 match to secure the two points for a forfeit.
The tournament, co-hosted by Sri Lanka and India, has been marred by political tensions in the build-up.
Pakistan’s government instructed its team not to play in the match as a show of support for Bangladesh, who were kicked out of the tournament for refusing to play in India.
India and Pakistan have not played bilateral cricket for over a decade, meeting only in global or regional tournaments.
Yadav acknowledged his side are favourites to retain the title they won two years ago.
“The way we have been playing, it looks like we are the favourites,” he said.
He was quick to add a note of caution, however.
“There are 19 (other) good teams in the tournament, though. On a given day, when you play, you have to bring your A-game and play good cricket.”
India begin their campaign against the United States on Saturday.
Yadav said no opponent would be taken lightly, noting the US caused a major upset by beating Pakistan in a super over during the 2024 tournament.
“I’m sure every game will be very important,” he said.
