Colombo: Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha said on Thursday that the national team would seek guidance from the government if they reach the knockout stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 and are drawn to face arch-rivals India.
Speaking at the captains’ press conference in Colombo, Agha said any potential match against India in the semi-final or final would be decided in consultation with the government, as the issue falls beyond the team’s control.
“The India game is not in our control. It was the government’s decision, and if we have to play them in the semi-final or the final, we will go back to them and act on their advice,” Agha said.
The tournament has been overshadowed by political tensions following Bangladesh’s exclusion from the event and Pakistan’s decision to boycott their Group A match against India, which was scheduled for February 15.
Despite the boycott, a high-profile showdown between Pakistan and India remains possible in the knockout stages.
Pakistan’s government had earlier decided not to play the February 15 match in solidarity with Bangladesh after the International Cricket Council (ICC) removed the Bangladeshi team from the tournament for refusing to play matches in India.
Expressing disappointment over Bangladesh’s absence, Agha said the team would be missed at the World Cup.
“It is unfortunate that the Bangladesh team is not playing in the World Cup. They have a very good side. Hopefully, they will support us,” he added.
The Pakistan captain said the team is focused on playing positive cricket and not allowing off-field issues to distract them from their on-field objectives.
Agha also shared his excitement about leading Pakistan in his first World Cup as captain, expressing confidence in the squad’s form and momentum.
“We’ve been playing really good cricket. We haven’t lost a series since the Asia Cup last year. Everything is coming along nicely, and we’re confident of doing well,” he said.
He stressed that no team can be taken lightly in a World Cup, adding that Pakistan is fully focused on its opening match against the Netherlands.
The captain also praised Sri Lanka’s hospitality, calling the country his “second home” and appreciating the warmth of its people.
Pakistan will begin their World Cup campaign against the Netherlands on February 7 at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground, Colombo. Their group-stage fixtures also include matches against the United States on February 10 and Namibia on February 18. All group matches will be played in Colombo.