Former Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president and BJP MP Anurag Thakur has urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to take strict action against Pakistan for refusing to play against India in the group stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The tournament will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka. Pakistan has clearly stated that it will not play against India and despite this statement, the Indian team will follow the tournament as per the schedule. The final decision on the match will be taken by the match referee.&nbsp;<h2>What Anurag Thakur said about Pakistan’s boycott</h2>Speaking on the issue, the former sports minister said that India has always been a strong and reliable host for international cricket events and has also made major contributions to global cricket community, both by developing the game and by supporting it financially.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The ICC should take a strong stance against them. India has provided excellent facilities in all the tournaments it has hosted,” Thakur said.&nbsp;“India makes a significant contribution to the global cricket community, both financially and in terms of the sport itself,” he added.&nbsp;He further pointed out that the ICC should act firmly and not allow politics to affect the sport. According to him, if a team refuses to play due to a political reasons, then the ICC should step in and take action. &nbsp;&nbsp;“If someone doesn’t want to come to India, making excuses and playing politics, then a strong stance should be taken against them,” Thakur said.&nbsp;“Their grants should be stopped, and they should be banned for a few years so that they cannot play against any other country,” he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-injured-harshit-rana-ruled-out-siraj-likely-to-replace-report-1770371456358">T20 WC 26: Injured Harshit Rana ruled out, Siraj likely to replace - Report</a><h2>Why is Pakistan refusing to play against India?</h2>Pakistan’s government released an official statement&nbsp;on the social media confirming that their team would take part in the T20 World Cup 2026 but would not play against India in their group match in Colombo. The decision comes after the Bangladesh being removed from the World Cup and replaced by Scotland, after they refused to travel to India for their tournament matches.&nbsp;&nbsp;Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also supported the boycott against India, calling it a very appropriate decision and added that the Pakistan wanted to stand firmly with Bangladesh and emphasised that politics should not be mixed with sports.&nbsp;“We have taken a very clear stand on the T20 World Cup that we won’t play the match against India because there should be no politics on the sports field,” Sharif stated after a government meeting. “We have taken a very considered stance, and we should completely stand by Bangladesh, and I think this is a very appropriate decision. We are with Bangladesh,” he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-their-kryptonite-could-be-helpful-pitches-says-ian-bishop-on-australia-s-prospects-1770373718686">'Their kryptonite could be helpful pitches': Ian Bishop on Australia’s prospects</a>&nbsp;The T20 World Cup will begin on Saturday (Feb 7) and one of the biggest rivalries, India vs Pakistan is set for Feb 15 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Under an agreement with the BCCI and the ICC, Pakistan is scheduled to play all its matches in Sri Lanka.

The T20 World Cup will begin on Saturday (Feb 7) and one of the biggest rivalries, India vs Pakistan is set for Feb 15 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Under an agreement with the BCCI and the ICC, Pakistan is scheduled to play all its matches in Sri Lanka.

Former Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president and BJP MP Anurag Thakur has urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to take strict action against Pakistan for refusing to play against India in the group stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The tournament will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka. Pakistan has clearly stated that it will not play against India and despite this statement, the Indian team will follow the tournament as per the schedule. The final decision on the match will be taken by the match referee. What Anurag Thakur said about Pakistan’s boycott Speaking on the issue, the former sports minister said that India has always been a strong and reliable host for international cricket events and has also made major contributions to global cricket community, both by developing the game and by supporting it financially. “The ICC should take a strong stance against them. India has provided excellent facilities in all the tournaments it has hosted,” Thakur said. “India makes a significant contribution to the global cricket community, both financially and in terms of the sport itself,” he added. He further pointed out that the ICC should act firmly and not allow politics to affect the sport. According to him, if a team refuses to play due to a political reasons, then the ICC should step in and take action. “If someone doesn’t want to come to India, making excuses and playing politics, then a strong stance should be taken against them,” Thakur said. “Their grants should be stopped, and they should be banned for a few years so that they cannot play against any other country,” he added. Also Read - T20 WC 26: Injured Harshit Rana ruled out, Siraj likely to replace - Report Why is Pakistan refusing to play against India? Pakistan’s government released an official statement on the social media confirming that their team would take part in the T20 World Cup 2026 but would not play against India in their group match in Colombo. The decision comes after the Bangladesh being removed from the World Cup and replaced by Scotland, after they refused to travel to India for their tournament matches. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also supported the boycott against India, calling it a very appropriate decision and added that the Pakistan wanted to stand firmly with Bangladesh and emphasised that politics should not be mixed with sports. “We have taken a very clear stand on the T20 World Cup that we won’t play the match against India because there should be no politics on the sports field,” Sharif stated after a government meeting. “We have taken a very considered stance, and we should completely stand by Bangladesh, and I think this is a very appropriate decision. We are with Bangladesh,” he added. Also Read - 'Their kryptonite could be helpful pitches': Ian Bishop on Australia’s prospects The T20 World Cup will begin on Saturday (Feb 7) and one of the biggest rivalries, India vs Pakistan is set for Feb 15 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Under an agreement with the BCCI and the ICC, Pakistan is scheduled to play all its matches in Sri Lanka.

The T20 World Cup will begin on Saturday (Feb 7) and one of the biggest rivalries, India vs Pakistan is set for Feb 15 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Under an agreement with the BCCI and the ICC, Pakistan is scheduled to play all its matches in Sri Lanka.

'Strong stance should be taken against Pakistan': Former BCCI president on IND vs PAK T20 World Cup match

Former West Indies cricketer and renowned commentator Ian Bishop believes Australia remain one of the most dangerous sides in modern T20 cricket, largely due to their intimidating batting power. However, he warned that a few underlying concerns could shape their campaign in the T20 World Cup starting from Saturday (February 7).&nbsp;“When Australia have all their resources together, you never write them off,” Bishop said, recalling witnessing their strength firsthand in the Caribbean. He highlighted the sheer physicality of their batting unit, describing them as “big guys, 6’5”, 6’6”, smacking the ball out of the ground,” capable of dismantling any bowling attack on their day. Yet, Bishop noted that not everything appears settled within the squad. “One or two guys are not in the best form heading into this WC, which I didn’t foresee,” he admitted, suggesting that form could become a important in high-pressure games.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-injured-harshit-rana-ruled-out-siraj-likely-to-replace-report-1770371456358">T20 World Cup 2026: Injured Harshit Rana ruled out, Siraj likely to replace - Report</a>&nbsp;He also pointed to Australia’s struggles in Pakistan as a reminder that conditions matter. According to Bishop, surfaces that offer assistance to bowlers, whether seam or spin, can disrupt batting-heavy teams. “Not all pitches should be flat, range-hitting surfaces. Balance is needed to bring bowlers back into the game,” ICC expert Ian Bishop spoke on the eve of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup India &amp; Sri Lanka 2026 at a JioStar Media Day.&nbsp;Australia’s bowling resources, in particular, could be an area of concern. Bishop emphasised the absence of key figures like Josh Hazlewood and the leadership value of Pat Cummins. “They’re going to have to mix and match, and teams will target them,” he warned. Summing it up, Bishop described helpful pitches as Australia’s potential ‘kryptonite’. While their explosive batting makes them title contenders, he stressed that any team hoping to win the tournament must excel with the ball, an area where Australia still faces questions.

The Australian team, led by Mitchell Marsh, will open their campaign against Ireland on February 11 at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, Colombo, Sri Lanka

Former West Indies cricketer and renowned commentator Ian Bishop believes Australia remain one of the most dangerous sides in modern T20 cricket, largely due to their intimidating batting power. However, he warned that a few underlying concerns could shape their campaign in the T20 World Cup starting from Saturday (February 7). “When Australia have all their resources together, you never write them off,” Bishop said, recalling witnessing their strength firsthand in the Caribbean. He highlighted the sheer physicality of their batting unit, describing them as “big guys, 6’5”, 6’6”, smacking the ball out of the ground,” capable of dismantling any bowling attack on their day. Yet, Bishop noted that not everything appears settled within the squad. “One or two guys are not in the best form heading into this WC, which I didn’t foresee,” he admitted, suggesting that form could become a important in high-pressure games. Also Read: T20 World Cup 2026: Injured Harshit Rana ruled out, Siraj likely to replace - Report He also pointed to Australia’s struggles in Pakistan as a reminder that conditions matter. According to Bishop, surfaces that offer assistance to bowlers, whether seam or spin, can disrupt batting-heavy teams. “Not all pitches should be flat, range-hitting surfaces. Balance is needed to bring bowlers back into the game,” ICC expert Ian Bishop spoke on the eve of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup India & Sri Lanka 2026 at a JioStar Media Day. Australia’s bowling resources, in particular, could be an area of concern. Bishop emphasised the absence of key figures like Josh Hazlewood and the leadership value of Pat Cummins. “They’re going to have to mix and match, and teams will target them,” he warned. Summing it up, Bishop described helpful pitches as Australia’s potential ‘kryptonite’. While their explosive batting makes them title contenders, he stressed that any team hoping to win the tournament must excel with the ball, an area where Australia still faces questions.

The Australian team, led by Mitchell Marsh, will open their campaign against Ireland on February 11 at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, Colombo, Sri Lanka

T20 World Cup 2026: 'Their kryptonite could be helpful pitches', says Ian Bishop on Australia’s prospects

India pacer Harshit Rana’s place in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 squad is uncertain after he picked up an injury during a practice match against South Africa in Navi Mumbai on Wednesday. Rana appeared uncomfortable while bowling, stopped his run-up twice, grabbed his knee and eventually left the field. He managed to bowl just one over, conceding 16 runs. According to some media reports, Mohammed Siraj could be named as his replacement.&nbsp;Speaking at the pre-match press conference ahead of the T20 World Cup opener against the USA, India captain Suryakumar Yadav said on Friday (Feb 6) that Rana has not been ruled out yet, but admitted the signs are not positive. He added that the team is ready to consider other options if Rana is unavailable.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Harshit Rana has not been ruled out yet, the physios are assessing him but he does not look good," Suryakumar said.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/u19-world-cup-final-vaibhav-sooryavanshi-wreaks-havoc-rewrites-record-books-with-175-run-knock-1770370849354">U19 World Cup final: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi wreaks havoc, rewrites record books with 175-run knock</a>&nbsp;Indian skipper also said that the selectors will look at fast bowlers who have performed well in the last one or two years, including those who can bat if needed. He also said the team does not expect lower-order players to always score quick runs and will focus on picking the best possible option.&nbsp;"We will see which fast bowlers have done well in last 1-2 years or bowlers who can bat. But if you are expecting a No 9 to hit out, what are the top eight doing? We will try to pick the best one," the India T20 captain said if a replacement is required. &nbsp;&nbsp;Suryakumar further explained that the squad was chosen with different combinations in mind and the team has enough flexibility to adjust if Rana cannot play. While he said Rana would be missed, he confirmed that there are other players who can fit into the team if required.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"You make a squad thinking combinations, if he (Rana) is unavailable, then we have enough players to make new combination. If we miss him, we will definitely miss him. We will look at fast bowlers who can bat also, but no hard and fast rule. We have options," Suryakumar said at the pre-match press conference ahead of the T20 World Cup opener.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-usa-t20-world-cup-2026-match-3-check-live-streaming-details-head-to-head-pitch-weather-report-1770367793218">IND vs USA, T20 WC 26: Check live streaming details, pitch &amp; weather report</a>&nbsp;However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India is yet to issue an official statement on the severity of Rana’s injury.&nbsp;India are also keeping an eye on other injury concerns, as all-rounder Washington Sundar, who missed the recent T20 series against New Zealand because of a side strain, is still part of the World Cup squad and is expected to recover in time. Tilak Varma, who was earlier sidelined with an injury, has returned and has played in two warm-up matches before the tournament.&nbsp;

Harshit Rana showed signs of discomfort in the warm-up game against South Africa, bowling just one over after struggling to complete his run-up.

India pacer Harshit Rana’s place in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 squad is uncertain after he picked up an injury during a practice match against South Africa in Navi Mumbai on Wednesday. Rana appeared uncomfortable while bowling, stopped his run-up twice, grabbed his knee and eventually left the field. He managed to bowl just one over, conceding 16 runs. According to some media reports, Mohammed Siraj could be named as his replacement. Speaking at the pre-match press conference ahead of the T20 World Cup opener against the USA, India captain Suryakumar Yadav said on Friday (Feb 6) that Rana has not been ruled out yet, but admitted the signs are not positive. He added that the team is ready to consider other options if Rana is unavailable. "Harshit Rana has not been ruled out yet, the physios are assessing him but he does not look good," Suryakumar said. Also Read - U19 World Cup final: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi wreaks havoc, rewrites record books with 175-run knock Indian skipper also said that the selectors will look at fast bowlers who have performed well in the last one or two years, including those who can bat if needed. He also said the team does not expect lower-order players to always score quick runs and will focus on picking the best possible option. "We will see which fast bowlers have done well in last 1-2 years or bowlers who can bat. But if you are expecting a No 9 to hit out, what are the top eight doing? We will try to pick the best one," the India T20 captain said if a replacement is required. Suryakumar further explained that the squad was chosen with different combinations in mind and the team has enough flexibility to adjust if Rana cannot play. While he said Rana would be missed, he confirmed that there are other players who can fit into the team if required. "You make a squad thinking combinations, if he (Rana) is unavailable, then we have enough players to make new combination. If we miss him, we will definitely miss him. We will look at fast bowlers who can bat also, but no hard and fast rule. We have options," Suryakumar said at the pre-match press conference ahead of the T20 World Cup opener. Also Read - IND vs USA, T20 WC 26: Check live streaming details, pitch & weather report However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India is yet to issue an official statement on the severity of Rana’s injury. India are also keeping an eye on other injury concerns, as all-rounder Washington Sundar, who missed the recent T20 series against New Zealand because of a side strain, is still part of the World Cup squad and is expected to recover in time. Tilak Varma, who was earlier sidelined with an injury, has returned and has played in two warm-up matches before the tournament.

Harshit Rana showed signs of discomfort in the warm-up game against South Africa, bowling just one over after struggling to complete his run-up.

T20 World Cup 2026: Injured Harshit Rana ruled out, Siraj likely to replace - Report

India will start their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 title defence against the United States (USA) on Saturday (Feb 7) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. The match is scheduled to begin at 7:00 pm IST, while the toss is expected at 6:30 pm IST. Even after the retirement of senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli following the 2024 World Cup win, India remain the No.1 ranked T20I team. They head into the tournament as favourites and look well-prepared to maintain their strong run in the shortest format. As the India vs USA clash draws closer, here are the key details you need to know, including live streaming details, pitch and weather reports.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-attack-on-national-team-sl-reminds-pak-of-2009-terror-attack-asks-to-reconsider-india-match-boycott-1770345581353">T20 WC 2026 | SL reminds PAK of 2009 terror attack, asks to reconsider boycott</a><h2>IND vs USA, T20 World Cup 2026 - Live streaming details</h2><h3>Where to watch IND vs USA, T20 World Cup 2026 live?</h3>The T20 World Cup 2026 match between India and the United States will be shown live on the Star Sports Network in India.<h3>Where to livestream IND vs USA, T20 World Cup 2026 match?</h3>The fans can watch the live streaming of the T20 World Cup 2026 match between India and the USA on the JioHotstar app and website in India.<h2>IND vs USA, T20 World Cup - &nbsp;Head-to-head&nbsp;</h2>India and the USA have played against each other only once in T20 Internationals and that meeting came during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, where India won by seven wickets. This upcoming match will be the second T20I between the two sides and it will be interesting to see how the USA team performs against a strong Indian lineup.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-pacer-josh-hazlewood-out-in-major-blow-for-australia-1770360268836">T20 World Cup 2026 | Major blow for Australia as star player out with injury</a><h3>Pitch Report</h3>The pitch at Wankhede Stadium usually supports batters and often produces high-scoring games. Spinners may find limited assistance, but fast bowlers who stick to good lines and lengths can still make an impact. Teams batting first generally score between 175 and 190 runs.<h2>Weather Report</h2>Mumbai is expected to have warm weather on match day, with daytime temperatures around 33°C and cooler conditions at night, dropping below 23°C. Rain is not expected, so a full match should be played.&nbsp;<h2>IND vs USA, T20 World Cup 2026 - Squads</h2>India:&nbsp;Suryakumar Yadav&nbsp;(c),&nbsp;Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson,&nbsp;Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan,&nbsp;Hardik Pandya,&nbsp;Arshdeep Singh,&nbsp;Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy,&nbsp;Kuldeep Yadav,&nbsp;Axar Patel,&nbsp;Washington Sundar and Rinku Singh&nbsp;United States:&nbsp;Monank Patel (c), Jessy Singh, Andries Gous, Shehan Jayasuriya, Milind Kumar, Shayan Jahangir, Saiteja Mukkamala, Sanjay Krishnamurthi, Harmeet Singh, Nosthush Kenjige, Shadley Van Schalkwyk, Saurabh Netravalkar, Ali Khan, Mohammad Mohsin and Shubham Ranjane.

As the India vs USA clash draws closer, here are the key details you need to know, including live streaming details, pitch and weather reports. 

India will start their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 title defence against the United States (USA) on Saturday (Feb 7) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. The match is scheduled to begin at 7:00 pm IST, while the toss is expected at 6:30 pm IST. Even after the retirement of senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli following the 2024 World Cup win, India remain the No.1 ranked T20I team. They head into the tournament as favourites and look well-prepared to maintain their strong run in the shortest format. As the India vs USA clash draws closer, here are the key details you need to know, including live streaming details, pitch and weather reports. Also Read - T20 WC 2026 | SL reminds PAK of 2009 terror attack, asks to reconsider boycott IND vs USA, T20 World Cup 2026 - Live streaming details Where to watch IND vs USA, T20 World Cup 2026 live? The T20 World Cup 2026 match between India and the United States will be shown live on the Star Sports Network in India. Where to livestream IND vs USA, T20 World Cup 2026 match? The fans can watch the live streaming of the T20 World Cup 2026 match between India and the USA on the JioHotstar app and website in India. IND vs USA, T20 World Cup - Head-to-head India and the USA have played against each other only once in T20 Internationals and that meeting came during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, where India won by seven wickets. This upcoming match will be the second T20I between the two sides and it will be interesting to see how the USA team performs against a strong Indian lineup. Also Read - T20 World Cup 2026 | Major blow for Australia as star player out with injury Pitch Report The pitch at Wankhede Stadium usually supports batters and often produces high-scoring games. Spinners may find limited assistance, but fast bowlers who stick to good lines and lengths can still make an impact. Teams batting first generally score between 175 and 190 runs. Weather Report Mumbai is expected to have warm weather on match day, with daytime temperatures around 33°C and cooler conditions at night, dropping below 23°C. Rain is not expected, so a full match should be played. IND vs USA, T20 World Cup 2026 - Squads India: Suryakumar Yadav (c), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar and Rinku Singh United States: Monank Patel (c), Jessy Singh, Andries Gous, Shehan Jayasuriya, Milind Kumar, Shayan Jahangir, Saiteja Mukkamala, Sanjay Krishnamurthi, Harmeet Singh, Nosthush Kenjige, Shadley Van Schalkwyk, Saurabh Netravalkar, Ali Khan, Mohammad Mohsin and Shubham Ranjane.

As the India vs USA clash draws closer, here are the key details you need to know, including live streaming details, pitch and weather reports.&nbsp;

IND vs USA, T20 World Cup 2026 Match 3: Check live streaming details, head-to-head, pitch & weather report

In a mjor blow to Australia's T20 World Cup 2026 campaign, pacer Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the tournament. With no Patrick Cummins, Mitchell Starc and now Hazlewood as well, the 2021 T20 World Cup champions will definitely have their work cut out for them in the tournament. This is also the first time since 2009 Champions Trophy that Australia are playing in an ICC tournament with without one of Cummins, Starc, Hazlewood, Steve Smith or David Warner as well. Cricket Australia, meanwhile, hasn't named a replacement for Hazlewood yet and will take a call on it at the later stage. Australia start their T20 World Cup campaign on Wednesday (Feb 11) against Ireland.<h2>Hazlewood ruled out of T20 World Cup 2026</h2>Ever since winning the IPL 2025 title with RCB, Hazlewood has been dealing with a lot of injuries. He suffered a hamstring strain leading upto the Ashes and then got hit by Achilles Heels injuries later on in the series. Hazlewood, however, played three T20I series against South Africa, New Zealand and India. He was expected to get fit for the later stages in the T20 World Cup but the recovery seems to be taking more time than anticipated.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-attack-on-national-team-sl-reminds-pak-of-2009-terror-attack-asks-to-reconsider-india-match-boycott-1770345581353">T20 WC 2026 | SL reminds PAK of 2009 terror attack, asks to reconsider boycott</a>"We were hopeful Josh would be back to match fitness by the Super 8 stage but the latest indications he is still some time away and accelerating his program will carry too much risk," selector Tony Dodemaide said. "We will not be naming a replacement player immediately. We feel we are well covered for the initial games so will make any later decisions based on priority need at the time."<h2>Who will replace Josh Hazlewood in the Australia squad</h2>As of now, Australia isn't naming a replacement. Sean Abbott, who has travelled with squad as a travelling reserve, might join the main squad later on.Australia squad for T20 World Cup 2026: Mitchell Marsh (c), Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Renshaw, Marcus Stoinis, and Adam Zampa

This is also the first time since 2009 Champions Trophy that Australia are playing in an ICC tournament with without one of Cummins, Starc, Hazlewood, Steve Smith or David Warner as well. Cricket Australia, meanwhile, hasn't named a replacement for Hazlewood yet.

In a mjor blow to Australia's T20 World Cup 2026 campaign, pacer Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the tournament. With no Patrick Cummins, Mitchell Starc and now Hazlewood as well, the 2021 T20 World Cup champions will definitely have their work cut out for them in the tournament. This is also the first time since 2009 Champions Trophy that Australia are playing in an ICC tournament with without one of Cummins, Starc, Hazlewood, Steve Smith or David Warner as well. Cricket Australia, meanwhile, hasn't named a replacement for Hazlewood yet and will take a call on it at the later stage. Australia start their T20 World Cup campaign on Wednesday (Feb 11) against Ireland. Hazlewood ruled out of T20 World Cup 2026 Ever since winning the IPL 2025 title with RCB, Hazlewood has been dealing with a lot of injuries. He suffered a hamstring strain leading upto the Ashes and then got hit by Achilles Heels injuries later on in the series. Hazlewood, however, played three T20I series against South Africa, New Zealand and India. He was expected to get fit for the later stages in the T20 World Cup but the recovery seems to be taking more time than anticipated. Also read: T20 WC 2026 | SL reminds PAK of 2009 terror attack, asks to reconsider boycott "We were hopeful Josh would be back to match fitness by the Super 8 stage but the latest indications he is still some time away and accelerating his program will carry too much risk," selector Tony Dodemaide said. "We will not be naming a replacement player immediately. We feel we are well covered for the initial games so will make any later decisions based on priority need at the time." Who will replace Josh Hazlewood in the Australia squad As of now, Australia isn't naming a replacement. Sean Abbott, who has travelled with squad as a travelling reserve, might join the main squad later on. Australia squad for T20 World Cup 2026: Mitchell Marsh (c), Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Renshaw, Marcus Stoinis, and Adam Zampa

This is also the first time since 2009 Champions Trophy that Australia are playing in an ICC tournament with without one of Cummins, Starc, Hazlewood, Steve Smith or David Warner as well. Cricket Australia, meanwhile, hasn't named a replacement for Hazlewood yet.

T20 World Cup 2026 | Major blow for Australia as another star player gets ruled out with injury

Sri Lanka, the co-host of upcoming T20 World Cup 2026, has urged Pakistan to play in their group-stage fixture against India. The India vs Pakistan match is scheduled to be played on Feb 15 in Colombo - the captail city of Sri Lanka. Pakistan had announced on Feb 1 that it will not be taking the field against India. Pakistan <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-won-t-play-the-match-against-india-because-pak-pm-shehbaz-sharif-reveals-reason-behind-boycott-1770253511196">Prime Miniser Shehbaz Sharif later described</a> as a decision taken to show solidarity with Bangladesh. Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), in a letter, has asked Pakistan to revisit the decision to boycott India match, invoking the support SLC has shown to Pakistan in the past including helping resume the international cricket.<h2>Remember our support after cricket resumed post 2009 terror attack on Sri Lanka team</h2>In a detailed letter to Pakistan cricket, SLC has asked the PCB to consider the financial loss of the India boycott. The island country also reminded Pakistan of support shown when the South West Asian country wanted to resume cricket post 2009 terror attack o the touring Sri Lankan team members.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-3-teams-200k-prize-money-bangladesh-announce-new-tournament-after-being-replaced-by-scotland-1770304836022">T20 World Cup 2026 | Bangladesh announce new tournament after being replaced by Scotland</a>"We respectfully recall that Sri Lanka Cricket and the Sri Lanka National Team have, on several occasions, toured Pakistan and participated in international fixtures notwithstanding exceptionally challenging and sensitive circumstances, including serious security-related incidents. These have included, inter alia, the attack on the national team convoy, as a result of which certain Sri Lankan players and officials sustained injuries, some of whom continue to carry physical impacts from those injuries to date, while others were left with profound and lasting psychological trauma. In more recent instances, further security incidents, including bombings in the region, placed additional emotional and professional strain on team members, with some compelled to contemplate withdrawal from ongoing engagements," read a part of the SCL letter as reported by the Times of India.<h2>Why Pakistan boycotting India match in T20 World Cup</h2>Pakistan's participation in the tournament was uncertain amid the drama over Bangladesh refusing to play in India over security concerns. After ICC replaced Bangladesh with Scotland for the tournament, PCB wasn't happy at all. The Paksitan Board, however, announced their participation in the tournament but decided to boycott India match - argubaly the biggest cricket fixture in world cricket.

SLC has asked the PCB to consider the financial loss of the India boycott. The island country also reminded Pakistan of support shown when the South West Asian country wanted to resume cricket post 2009 terror attack o the touring Sri Lankan team mem

Sri Lanka, the co-host of upcoming T20 World Cup 2026, has urged Pakistan to play in their group-stage fixture against India. The India vs Pakistan match is scheduled to be played on Feb 15 in Colombo - the captail city of Sri Lanka. Pakistan had announced on Feb 1 that it will not be taking the field against India. Pakistan Prime Miniser Shehbaz Sharif later described as a decision taken to show solidarity with Bangladesh. Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), in a letter, has asked Pakistan to revisit the decision to boycott India match, invoking the support SLC has shown to Pakistan in the past including helping resume the international cricket. Remember our support after cricket resumed post 2009 terror attack on Sri Lanka team In a detailed letter to Pakistan cricket, SLC has asked the PCB to consider the financial loss of the India boycott. The island country also reminded Pakistan of support shown when the South West Asian country wanted to resume cricket post 2009 terror attack o the touring Sri Lankan team members. Also Read: T20 World Cup 2026 | Bangladesh announce new tournament after being replaced by Scotland "We respectfully recall that Sri Lanka Cricket and the Sri Lanka National Team have, on several occasions, toured Pakistan and participated in international fixtures notwithstanding exceptionally challenging and sensitive circumstances, including serious security-related incidents. These have included, inter alia, the attack on the national team convoy, as a result of which certain Sri Lankan players and officials sustained injuries, some of whom continue to carry physical impacts from those injuries to date, while others were left with profound and lasting psychological trauma. In more recent instances, further security incidents, including bombings in the region, placed additional emotional and professional strain on team members, with some compelled to contemplate withdrawal from ongoing engagements," read a part of the SCL letter as reported by the Times of India. Why Pakistan boycotting India match in T20 World Cup Pakistan's participation in the tournament was uncertain amid the drama over Bangladesh refusing to play in India over security concerns. After ICC replaced Bangladesh with Scotland for the tournament, PCB wasn't happy at all. The Paksitan Board, however, announced their participation in the tournament but decided to boycott India match - argubaly the biggest cricket fixture in world cricket.

SLC has asked the PCB to consider the financial loss of the India boycott. The island country also reminded Pakistan of support shown when the South West Asian country wanted to resume cricket post 2009 terror attack o the touring Sri Lankan team members.

T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Attack on national team': SL reminds PAK of 2009 terror attack, asks to reconsider India match boycott

It has been a turbulent last few days for the cricket fraternity and its core members after the Pakistan government officially announced its boycott of the T20 World Cup clash. The announcement came on Sunday (Feb 1) when Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi met Pakistan Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif. However, there could be a U-turn in the events with the International Cricket Council (ICC) in back-channel talks with the PCB.<h2>Will India-Pakistan T20 World Cup match go ahead?</h2>According to a prominent cricket website, Espncricinfo, though the PCB has not publicly commented on the boycott of the group match against India, the ICC responded to the decision - originally conveyed by the Government of Pakistan on its 'X' account - saying it expected the PCB to "explore a mutually acceptable resolution, which protects the interests of all stakeholders."&nbsp;That resolution has been the subject of calls and meetings between Imran Khwaja, the ICC deputy chair, and Mubashir Usmani of the Emirates Cricket Board, who is also on the ICC Board. They have been in communication with PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi and Salman Naseer, who is the PSL head but also a senior advisor to Naqvi.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a><h2>What is the latest development?</h2>If everything goes right and the Pakistan government gives its go-ahead, the match could take place on Feb 15 in Colombo. Currently, no official communication has been made by the PCB to the ICC regarding their boycott of the high-octane contest. Cricket Sri Lanka (CSL), on the other hand have requested PCB to reconsider their government’s decision and play in the World Cup match.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;Since the announcement of the boycott, however, contact from the ICC has focused on addressing PCB's grievances so that the game goes ahead. Khwaja has stepped in as a mediator in other recent disputes involving the PCB, BCCI and the ICC.

Currently, no official communication has been made by the PCB to the ICC regarding their boycott of the high-octane contest. Cricket Sri Lanka (CSL), on the other hand have requested PCB to reconsider their government’s decision and play in the World Cup match.

It has been a turbulent last few days for the cricket fraternity and its core members after the Pakistan government officially announced its boycott of the T20 World Cup clash. The announcement came on Sunday (Feb 1) when Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi met Pakistan Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif. However, there could be a U-turn in the events with the International Cricket Council (ICC) in back-channel talks with the PCB. Will India-Pakistan T20 World Cup match go ahead? According to a prominent cricket website, Espncricinfo, though the PCB has not publicly commented on the boycott of the group match against India, the ICC responded to the decision - originally conveyed by the Government of Pakistan on its 'X' account - saying it expected the PCB to "explore a mutually acceptable resolution, which protects the interests of all stakeholders." That resolution has been the subject of calls and meetings between Imran Khwaja, the ICC deputy chair, and Mubashir Usmani of the Emirates Cricket Board, who is also on the ICC Board. They have been in communication with PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi and Salman Naseer, who is the PSL head but also a senior advisor to Naqvi. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds What is the latest development? If everything goes right and the Pakistan government gives its go-ahead, the match could take place on Feb 15 in Colombo. Currently, no official communication has been made by the PCB to the ICC regarding their boycott of the high-octane contest. Cricket Sri Lanka (CSL), on the other hand have requested PCB to reconsider their government’s decision and play in the World Cup match. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli Since the announcement of the boycott, however, contact from the ICC has focused on addressing PCB's grievances so that the game goes ahead. Khwaja has stepped in as a mediator in other recent disputes involving the PCB, BCCI and the ICC.

Currently, no official communication has been made by the PCB to the ICC regarding their boycott of the high-octane contest. Cricket Sri Lanka (CSL), on the other hand have requested PCB to reconsider their government’s decision and play in the World Cup match.

T20 World Cup 2026: India-Pakistan match to go ahead? ICC-PCB in back-channel talks - Report

Bangladesh, after being replaced in the T20 World Cup 2026 with Scotland, has announced a new T20 tournament, starting Feb 5. All the top players of country, barred from playing in the T20 World Cup, will take part in the three-team tournament with the final set to be played on Feb 9. Bangladesh's ouster came after it refused to travel to India, co-host of the tournament along with Sri Lanka, citing security concern for players. The whole thing started after IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) released Bangladesh bowler Mustafizur Rahman from the squad after picking him up in the IPL 2026 auction. Notably, Rahman was the only Bangladesh bowler picked in the auction.<h2>What is Bangladesh's new T20 tournament?</h2>The new 20-over tournament, named Odommo Bangladesh T20 Cup, will be played between 3 teams: Dhumketu XI, Durbar XI, and Duronto XI. The sides will be led by Litton Das (Dhumketu), Najmul Hossain Shanto (Durbar) and Akbar Ali (Duronto). The teams will played each other once in the round-robin format. The top teams will face off each other in the final.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-won-t-play-the-match-against-india-because-pak-pm-shehbaz-sharif-reveals-reason-behind-boycott-1770253511196">T20 World Cup 2026 | Pak PM Sharif reveals reason behind India match boycott</a>The league matches will be played on Feb 5, 6 and 7 while the final takes place on Feb 9. All the matches will be played in Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh. The tournament has also been given official T20 status by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and has a total prize money of 2.5 crore Takas (US $ 200,000 approx).<h2>Why is Bangladesh not playing T20 World Cup 2026?</h2>After Mustafizur was released by KKR, Bangladesh banned the broadcast of IPL in the country for indefinite period. Later on, they requested ICC to shift their matches to Sri Lanka. &nbsp;Bangladesh were in Group C along with England, Italy, Nepal, and West Indies. Bangladesh were scheduled to play their first three group matches in Kolkata on February 7 (vs West Indies), February 9 (vs Italy) and February 14 (vs England) before the final match in Mumbai on February 17 (vs Nepal). After the ICC asked them to reconsider their stance, Bangladesh refused to buzz and were finally replaced by Scotland.

The new 20-over tournament, named Odommo Bangladesh T20 Cup, will be played between 3 teams: Dhumketu XI, Durbar XI, and Duronto XI. The league matches will be played on Feb 5, 6 and 7 while the final takes place on Feb 9.

Bangladesh, after being replaced in the T20 World Cup 2026 with Scotland, has announced a new T20 tournament, starting Feb 5. All the top players of country, barred from playing in the T20 World Cup, will take part in the three-team tournament with the final set to be played on Feb 9. Bangladesh's ouster came after it refused to travel to India, co-host of the tournament along with Sri Lanka, citing security concern for players. The whole thing started after IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) released Bangladesh bowler Mustafizur Rahman from the squad after picking him up in the IPL 2026 auction. Notably, Rahman was the only Bangladesh bowler picked in the auction. What is Bangladesh's new T20 tournament? The new 20-over tournament, named Odommo Bangladesh T20 Cup, will be played between 3 teams: Dhumketu XI, Durbar XI, and Duronto XI. The sides will be led by Litton Das (Dhumketu), Najmul Hossain Shanto (Durbar) and Akbar Ali (Duronto). The teams will played each other once in the round-robin format. The top teams will face off each other in the final. Also Read: T20 World Cup 2026 | Pak PM Sharif reveals reason behind India match boycott The league matches will be played on Feb 5, 6 and 7 while the final takes place on Feb 9. All the matches will be played in Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh. The tournament has also been given official T20 status by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and has a total prize money of 2.5 crore Takas (US $ 200,000 approx). Why is Bangladesh not playing T20 World Cup 2026? After Mustafizur was released by KKR, Bangladesh banned the broadcast of IPL in the country for indefinite period. Later on, they requested ICC to shift their matches to Sri Lanka. Bangladesh were in Group C along with England, Italy, Nepal, and West Indies. Bangladesh were scheduled to play their first three group matches in Kolkata on February 7 (vs West Indies), February 9 (vs Italy) and February 14 (vs England) before the final match in Mumbai on February 17 (vs Nepal). After the ICC asked them to reconsider their stance, Bangladesh refused to buzz and were finally replaced by Scotland.

The new 20-over tournament, named Odommo Bangladesh T20 Cup, will be played between 3 teams: Dhumketu XI, Durbar XI, and Duronto XI. The league matches will be played on Feb 5, 6 and 7 while the final takes place on Feb 9.

T20 World Cup 2026 | Bangladesh announce new tournament after being replaced by Scotland

England Test captain Ben Stokes was brutally injured on Thursday (Feb 5) after he was injured during when he got hit flush on the face by a ball while in training. "You should see the state of the cricket ball,” Stokes posted with a laughing emoji on Instagram. Stokes wasn’t batting when the incident occurred, but was standing on the side with his teammates. It is reported that Stokes couldn’t see the ball, which ultimately struck him on the right side of the face. Stokes is currently recovering from an injury he sustained at the Ashes.<h2>Stokes injured in training</h2>Out of the white-ball set-up, Stokes was training with his fellow teammates in his native England when the brutal incident happened. It is reported that Stokes was unaware of the trajectory of the ball when it hit his face. The impact of the injury was such that Stokes was left with a bleeding nose and a bruised right eye. The impact was clearly seen in the Instagram story posted by the 2022 T20 World Cup winner.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;Stokes, out of reckoning in the T20 World Cup, will be the side’s biggest cheerleader, having helped England win the competition in 2022. Stokes played a key role as England won the competition for the second time, having first lifted the trophy in 2010 under Paul Collingwood’s captaincy.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a><h2>England at T20 World Cup 2026</h2>England will start their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign against Nepal on Sunday (Feb 8) before facing the West Indies. The contest against the West Indies will be a repeat of the 2016 T20 World Cup final when Stokes was on the receiving end of a batting onslaught from Carlos Brathwaite. However, under Harry Brook, will be ready to make an impact at the first time of asking and win the T20 World Cup for a record third time.

Ben Stokes wasn’t batting when the incident occurred, but was standing on the side with his teammates.

England Test captain Ben Stokes was brutally injured on Thursday (Feb 5) after he was injured during when he got hit flush on the face by a ball while in training. "You should see the state of the cricket ball,” Stokes posted with a laughing emoji on Instagram. Stokes wasn’t batting when the incident occurred, but was standing on the side with his teammates. It is reported that Stokes couldn’t see the ball, which ultimately struck him on the right side of the face. Stokes is currently recovering from an injury he sustained at the Ashes. Stokes injured in training Out of the white-ball set-up, Stokes was training with his fellow teammates in his native England when the brutal incident happened. It is reported that Stokes was unaware of the trajectory of the ball when it hit his face. The impact of the injury was such that Stokes was left with a bleeding nose and a bruised right eye. The impact was clearly seen in the Instagram story posted by the 2022 T20 World Cup winner. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli Stokes, out of reckoning in the T20 World Cup, will be the side’s biggest cheerleader, having helped England win the competition in 2022. Stokes played a key role as England won the competition for the second time, having first lifted the trophy in 2010 under Paul Collingwood’s captaincy. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds England at T20 World Cup 2026 England will start their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign against Nepal on Sunday (Feb 8) before facing the West Indies. The contest against the West Indies will be a repeat of the 2016 T20 World Cup final when Stokes was on the receiving end of a batting onslaught from Carlos Brathwaite. However, under Harry Brook, will be ready to make an impact at the first time of asking and win the T20 World Cup for a record third time.

Ben Stokes wasn’t batting when the incident occurred, but was standing on the side with his teammates.

Ben Stokes brutally injured in training, reveals severely bruised right eye, bleeding nose

India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav on Thursday backed India to lift the T20 World Cup 2026 as he spoke during the Captain's Media Day in Mumbai. India are the defending champion of the T20 World Cup and will start their campaign on Feb 7 against the USA.

ICC T20 World Cup 2026: Suryakumar Yadav ready for challenge, backs India to triumph

The 2026 T20 World Cup will start on Saturday (Feb 7), with India and Sri Lanka co-hosting the tournament. Ahead of the start of the competition, Pakistan captain Agha Ali addressed the media at the captains’ day press conference, where he finally broke his silence on the controversy surrounding the India vs Pakistan clash, scheduled for Feb 15 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. He said that the team’s decision not to play against India in the T20 World Cup 2026 was made by the government, not by the players. He further explained that the players have no control over the matter and must follow official instructions.&nbsp;&nbsp;The highly anticipated match is going to be uncertain after the Pakistan government announced a boycott. According to media reports, the decision is being linked to the support for Bangladesh, who was ousted of the World Cup after they refused to play their matches in India, saying there were security concerns.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The India game is not in our control. It’s the government’s and the PCB’s decision and we respect that. Whatever they are going to say, we will do that,” Agha said during the captain’s conference.&nbsp;&nbsp;“If we have to play them again in the semifinal or final, we will have to go back to them and act on their advice,” he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-we-haven-t-refused-to-play-against-pakistan-suryakumar-yadav-on-ind-vs-pak-t20-world-cup-2026-match-1770289019296">'We haven’t refused to play against Pakistan': Suryakumar Yadav on IND vs PAK T20 World Cup 2026 match</a><h2>What Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif said on boycott</h2>Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also supported the boycott against India, calling it a very appropriate decision and added that the Pakistan wanted to stand firmly with Bangladesh and emphasised that politics should not be mixed with sports.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We have taken a very clear stand on the T20 World Cup that we won’t play the match against India because there should be no politics on the sports field,” Sharif stated after a government meeting. “We have taken a very considered stance, and we should completely stand by Bangladesh, and I think this is a very appropriate decision. We are with Bangladesh,” he added. &nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mustafizur-rahman-embroiled-in-ipl-controversy-joins-lahore-qalandars-ahead-of-psl-2026-1770289098257">Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman joins Lahore Qalandars ahead of PSL 2026</a>&nbsp;Few days earlier, Agha had made similar remarks that he said today at the captains’ day press conference ahead of theT20 World Cup 2026. &nbsp;&nbsp;“We are going to the World Cup. The decision not to play against India isn’t ours, so we cannot do anything about it. Whatever our government, the PCB chief tells us to do, we will do that only,” Agha told reporters after the third T20I against Australia on Sunday.

The upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 will be the 10th edition of the tournament, which takes place in every two years. Pakistan are placed in Group A with India, the Netherlands, Namibia and the USA.

The 2026 T20 World Cup will start on Saturday (Feb 7), with India and Sri Lanka co-hosting the tournament. Ahead of the start of the competition, Pakistan captain Agha Ali addressed the media at the captains’ day press conference, where he finally broke his silence on the controversy surrounding the India vs Pakistan clash, scheduled for Feb 15 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. He said that the team’s decision not to play against India in the T20 World Cup 2026 was made by the government, not by the players. He further explained that the players have no control over the matter and must follow official instructions. The highly anticipated match is going to be uncertain after the Pakistan government announced a boycott. According to media reports, the decision is being linked to the support for Bangladesh, who was ousted of the World Cup after they refused to play their matches in India, saying there were security concerns. “The India game is not in our control. It’s the government’s and the PCB’s decision and we respect that. Whatever they are going to say, we will do that,” Agha said during the captain’s conference. “If we have to play them again in the semifinal or final, we will have to go back to them and act on their advice,” he added. Also Read - 'We haven’t refused to play against Pakistan': Suryakumar Yadav on IND vs PAK T20 World Cup 2026 match What Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif said on boycott Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also supported the boycott against India, calling it a very appropriate decision and added that the Pakistan wanted to stand firmly with Bangladesh and emphasised that politics should not be mixed with sports. “We have taken a very clear stand on the T20 World Cup that we won’t play the match against India because there should be no politics on the sports field,” Sharif stated after a government meeting. “We have taken a very considered stance, and we should completely stand by Bangladesh, and I think this is a very appropriate decision. We are with Bangladesh,” he added. Also Read - Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman joins Lahore Qalandars ahead of PSL 2026 Few days earlier, Agha had made similar remarks that he said today at the captains’ day press conference ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026. “We are going to the World Cup. The decision not to play against India isn’t ours, so we cannot do anything about it. Whatever our government, the PCB chief tells us to do, we will do that only,” Agha told reporters after the third T20I against Australia on Sunday.

The upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 will be the 10th edition of the tournament, which takes place in every two years. Pakistan are placed in Group A with India, the Netherlands, Namibia and the USA.

'India game is not in our control': Salman Agha breaks silence on boycotting T20 World Cup clash

India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav on Thursday (Feb 5) has said that India has not refused to play against Pakistan in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 and explained that the decision came from the Pakistan’s side. He also said that the Indian team has already booked their tickets to travel to Colombo for the match against Pakistan, scheduled for Feb 15. However, Pakistan government has not allowed its team to play the match in Colombo, although no official communication has been made by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to International Cricket Council (ICC).&nbsp;Also Check - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-top-5-indian-batters-with-most-runs-in-t20-world-cup-history-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-yuvraj-singh-ms-dhoni-gautam-gambhir-1770277029621">Meet top 5 Indian batters with most runs in T20 World Cup history</a>&nbsp;According to media reports, the decision is being linked to the support for Bangladesh, who was ousted of the World Cup after they refused to play their matches in India, saying there were security concerns.&nbsp;&nbsp;"We haven’t refused to play against Pakistan. They have refused", Suryakumar said while speaking at the captains’ day press conference ahead of the T20 World Cup.&nbsp;"First we will play in Mumbai, then head to Delhi and then travel to Colombo. I feel their decision isn’t in my control," Suryakumar added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcb-vs-dc-wpl-2026-final-when-and-where-to-watch-royal-challengers-bengaluru-vs-delhi-capitals-match-live-streaming-in-india-1770273811856">RCB vs DC, WPL 2026 Final: When and where to watch Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Delhi Capitals match live streaming in India?</a>&nbsp;The T20 World Cup will begin on Saturday (Feb 7) and one of the biggest rivalries, India vs Pakistan is set for Feb 15 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Under an agreement with the BCCI and the ICC, Pakistan is scheduled to play all its matches in Sri Lanka.&nbsp;&nbsp;The ICC also warned the Pakistan Cricket Board that skipping such a major match could lead to penalties, as an India-Pakistan match is the biggest attraction in any ICC tournament, bringing in massive global viewership, strong sponsor interest and high broadcasting revenue.

The upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 will be the 10th edition of the tournament, which takes place in every two years. India are placed in Group A with Pakistan, the Netherlands, Namibia and the USA.

India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav on Thursday (Feb 5) has said that India has not refused to play against Pakistan in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 and explained that the decision came from the Pakistan’s side. He also said that the Indian team has already booked their tickets to travel to Colombo for the match against Pakistan, scheduled for Feb 15. However, Pakistan government has not allowed its team to play the match in Colombo, although no official communication has been made by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to International Cricket Council (ICC). Also Check - Meet top 5 Indian batters with most runs in T20 World Cup history According to media reports, the decision is being linked to the support for Bangladesh, who was ousted of the World Cup after they refused to play their matches in India, saying there were security concerns. "We haven’t refused to play against Pakistan. They have refused", Suryakumar said while speaking at the captains’ day press conference ahead of the T20 World Cup. "First we will play in Mumbai, then head to Delhi and then travel to Colombo. I feel their decision isn’t in my control," Suryakumar added. Also Read - RCB vs DC, WPL 2026 Final: When and where to watch Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Delhi Capitals match live streaming in India? The T20 World Cup will begin on Saturday (Feb 7) and one of the biggest rivalries, India vs Pakistan is set for Feb 15 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Under an agreement with the BCCI and the ICC, Pakistan is scheduled to play all its matches in Sri Lanka. The ICC also warned the Pakistan Cricket Board that skipping such a major match could lead to penalties, as an India-Pakistan match is the biggest attraction in any ICC tournament, bringing in massive global viewership, strong sponsor interest and high broadcasting revenue.

The upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 will be the 10th edition of the tournament, which takes place in every two years. India are placed in Group A with Pakistan, the Netherlands, Namibia and the USA.

'We haven’t refused to play against Pakistan': Suryakumar Yadav on IND vs PAK T20 World Cup 2026 match

The 2026 T20 World Cup will start on Feb 7, with India and Sri Lanka co-hosting the event. A total of 20 teams will compete and they have been divided into four groups of five sides each. India are placed in Group A with Pakistan, the Netherlands, Namibia and the USA. India, who have won the tournament twice and are the current champions will start their campaign against the USA at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on Feb 7. Group B includes former champions Australia, co-hosts Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, Ireland and Oman. While, Group C features two-time winners England and West Indies, along with Scotland, Nepal and Italy. It will be Italy’s first time playing in a T20 World Cup.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcb-vs-dc-wpl-2026-final-when-and-where-to-watch-royal-challengers-bengaluru-vs-delhi-capitals-match-live-streaming-in-india-1770273811856">RCB vs DC, WPL 2026 Final: When and where to watch Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Delhi Capitals match live streaming in India?</a><h2>T20 World Cup 2026 groups</h2><ul><li>Group A: India, Pakistan, Netherlands, Namibia and USA</li><li>Group B: Sri Lanka, Australia, Zimbabwe, Ireland and Oman</li><li>Group C: England, West Indies, Scotland, Nepal and Italy</li><li>Group D: South Africa, New Zealand, Afghanistan, UAE and Canada</li></ul>Also Check - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-top-5-indian-batters-with-most-runs-in-t20-world-cup-history-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-yuvraj-singh-ms-dhoni-gautam-gambhir-1770277029621">Meet top 5 Indian batters with most runs in T20 World Cup history</a><h2>Complete schedule of the T20 World Cup 2026</h2>

<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Date</td><td>Time</td><td>Team 1</td><td>Team 2</td><td>Venue</td></tr><tr><td>07 Feb 2026</td><td>11:00 AM &nbsp;(SLST)</td><td>PAK</td><td>NED</td><td>SSC, Colombo</td></tr><tr><td>07 Feb 2026</td><td>3:00 PM (IST)</td><td>WI</td><td>SCT</td><td>Kolkata</td></tr><tr><td>07 Feb 2026</td><td>7:00 PM (IST)</td><td>IND</td><td>USA</td><td>Mumbai</td></tr><tr><td>08 Feb 2026</td><td>11:00 AM (IST)</td><td>NZ</td><td>AFG</td><td>Chennai</td></tr><tr><td>08 Feb 2026</td><td>3:00 PM (IST)</td><td>ENG</td><td>NEP</td><td>Mumbai</td></tr><tr><td>08 Feb 2026</td><td>7:00 PM &nbsp;(SLST)</td><td>SL</td><td>IRE</td><td>Premadasa, Colombo</td></tr><tr><td>09 Feb 2026</td><td>11:00 AM (IST)</td><td>SCT</td><td>ITA</td><td>Kolkata</td></tr><tr><td>09 Feb 2026</td><td>3:00 PM &nbsp;(SLST)</td><td>ZIM</td><td>OMA</td><td>SSC, Colombo</td></tr><tr><td>09 Feb 2026</td><td>7:00 PM (IST)</td><td>SA</td><td>CAN</td><td>Ahmedabad</td></tr><tr><td>10 Feb 2026</td><td>11:00 AM (IST)</td><td>NED</td><td>NAM</td><td>Delhi</td></tr><tr><td>10 Feb 2026</td><td>3:00 PM (IST)</td><td>NZ</td><td>UAE</td><td>Chennai</td></tr><tr><td>10 Feb 2026</td><td>7:00 PM &nbsp;(SLST)</td><td>PAK</td><td>USA</td><td>SSC, Colombo</td></tr><tr><td>11 Feb 2026</td><td>11:00 AM (IST)</td><td>SA</td><td>AFG</td><td>Ahmedabad</td></tr><tr><td>11 Feb 2026</td><td>3:00 PM &nbsp;(SLST)</td><td>AUS</td><td>IRE</td><td>Premadasa, Colombo</td></tr><tr><td>11 Feb 2026</td><td>7:00 PM (IST)</td><td>ENG</td><td>WI</td><td>Mumbai</td></tr><tr><td>12 Feb 2026</td><td>11:00 AM &nbsp;(SLST)</td><td>SL</td><td>OMA</td><td>Kandy</td></tr><tr><td>12 Feb 2026</td><td>3:00 PM (IST)</td><td>NEP</td><td>ITA</td><td>Mumbai</td></tr><tr><td>12 Feb 2026</td><td>7:00 PM (IST)</td><td>IND</td><td>NAM</td><td>Delhi</td></tr><tr><td>13 Feb 2026</td><td>11:00 AM &nbsp;(SLST)</td><td>AUS</td><td>ZIM</td><td>Premadasa, Colombo</td></tr><tr><td>13 Feb 2026</td><td>3:00 PM (IST)</td><td>CAN</td><td>UAE</td><td>Delhi</td></tr><tr><td>13 Feb 2026</td><td>7:00 PM (IST)</td><td>USA</td><td>NED</td><td>Chennai</td></tr><tr><td>14 Feb 2026</td><td>11:00 AM &nbsp;(SLST)</td><td>IRE</td><td>OMA</td><td>SSC, Colombo</td></tr><tr><td>14 Feb 2026</td><td>3:00 PM (IST)</td><td>ENG</td><td>SCT</td><td>Kolkata</td></tr><tr><td>14 Feb 2026</td><td>7:00 PM (IST)</td><td>NZ</td><td>SA</td><td>Ahmedabad</td></tr><tr><td>15 Feb 2026</td><td>11:00 AM (IST)</td><td>WI</td><td>NEP</td><td>Mumbai</td></tr><tr><td>15 Feb 2026</td><td>3:00 PM (IST)</td><td>USA</td><td>NAM</td><td>Chennai</td></tr><tr><td>15 Feb 2026</td><td>7:00 PM &nbsp;(SLST)</td><td>IND</td><td>PAK</td><td>Premadasa, Colombo</td></tr><tr><td>16 Feb 2026</td><td>11:00 AM (IST)</td><td>AFG</td><td>UAE</td><td>Delhi</td></tr><tr><td>16 Feb 2026</td><td>3:00 PM (IST)</td><td>ENG</td><td>ITA</td><td>Kolkata</td></tr><tr><td>16 Feb 2026</td><td>7:00 PM &nbsp;(SLST)</td><td>AUS</td><td>SL</td><td>Kandy</td></tr><tr><td>17 Feb 2026</td><td>11:00 AM (IST)</td><td>NZ</td><td>CAN</td><td>Chennai</td></tr><tr><td>17 Feb 2026</td><td>3:00 PM &nbsp;(SLST)</td><td>IRE</td><td>ZIM</td><td>Kandy</td></tr><tr><td>17 Feb 2026</td><td>7:00 PM (IST)</td><td>SCT</td><td>NEP</td><td>Mumbai</td></tr><tr><td>18 Feb 2026</td><td>11:00 AM (IST)</td><td>SA</td><td>UAE</td><td>Delhi</td></tr><tr><td>18 Feb 2026</td><td>3:00 PM &nbsp;(SLST)</td><td>PAK</td><td>NAM</td><td>SSC, Colombo</td></tr><tr><td>18 Feb 2026</td><td>7:00 PM (IST)</td><td>IND</td><td>NED</td><td>Ahmedabad</td></tr><tr><td>19 Feb 2026</td><td>11:00 AM (IST)</td><td>WI</td><td>ITA</td><td>Kolkata</td></tr><tr><td>19 Feb 2026</td><td>3:00 PM &nbsp;(SLST)</td><td>SL</td><td>ZIM</td><td>Premadasa, Colombo</td></tr><tr><td>19 Feb 2026</td><td>7:00 PM (IST)</td><td>AFG</td><td>CAN</td><td>Chennai</td></tr><tr><td>20 Feb 2026</td><td>11:00 AM</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>20 Feb 2026</td><td>3:00 PM</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>20 Feb 2026</td><td>7:00 PM &nbsp;(SLST)</td><td>AUS</td><td>OMA</td><td>Kandy</td></tr><tr><td>21 Feb 2026</td><td>11:00 AM</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>21 Feb 2026</td><td>3:00 PM</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>21 Feb 2026</td><td>7:00 PM &nbsp;(SLST)</td><td>Y2</td><td>Y3</td><td>Premadasa, Colombo</td></tr><tr><td>22 Feb 2026</td><td>11:00 AM</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>22 Feb 2026</td><td>3:00 PM &nbsp;(SLST)</td><td>Y1</td><td>Y4</td><td>Kandy</td></tr><tr><td>22 Feb 2026</td><td>7:00 PM (IST)</td><td>X1</td><td>X4</td><td>Ahmedabad</td></tr><tr><td>23 Feb 2026</td><td>11:00 AM</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>23 Feb 2026</td><td>3:00 PM</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>23 Feb 2026</td><td>7:00 PM (IST)</td><td>X2</td><td>X3</td><td>Mumbai</td></tr><tr><td>24 Feb 2026</td><td>11:00 AM</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>24 Feb 2026</td><td>3:00 PM</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>24 Feb 2026</td><td>7:00 PM &nbsp;(SLST)</td><td>Y1</td><td>Y3</td><td>Kandy</td></tr><tr><td>25 Feb 2026</td><td>11:00 AM</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>25 Feb 2026</td><td>3:00 PM</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>25 Feb 2026</td><td>7:00 PM &nbsp;(SLST)</td><td>Y2</td><td>Y4</td><td>Premadasa, Colombo</td></tr><tr><td>26 Feb 2026</td><td>11:00 AM</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>26 Feb 2026</td><td>3:00 PM (IST)</td><td>X3</td><td>X4</td><td>Ahmedabad</td></tr><tr><td>26 Feb 2026</td><td>7:00 PM (IST)</td><td>X1</td><td>X2</td><td>Chennai</td></tr><tr><td>27 Feb 2026</td><td>11:00 AM</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>27 Feb 2026</td><td>3:00 PM</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>27 Feb 2026</td><td>7:00 PM &nbsp;(SLST)</td><td>Y1</td><td>Y2</td><td>Premadasa, Colombo</td></tr><tr><td>28 Feb 2026</td><td>11:00 AM</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>28 Feb 2026</td><td>3:00 PM</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>28 Feb 2026</td><td>7:00 PM &nbsp;(SLST)</td><td>Y3</td><td>Y4</td><td>Kandy</td></tr><tr><td>01 Mar 2026</td><td>11:00 AM</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>01 Mar 2026</td><td>3:00 PM (IST)</td><td>X2</td><td>X4</td><td>Delhi</td></tr><tr><td>01 Mar 2026</td><td>7:00 PM (IST)</td><td>X1</td><td>X3</td><td>Kolkata</td></tr><tr><td>02 Mar 2026</td><td>3:00 PM</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>02 Mar 2026</td><td>7:00 PM</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>03 Mar 2026</td><td>3:00 PM</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>03 Mar 2026</td><td>7:00 PM</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>04 Mar 2026</td><td>7:00 PM (IST)</td><td>SF1</td><td>KO</td><td>Kolkata</td></tr><tr><td>04 Mar 2026</td><td>7:00 PM (SLST)</td><td>SF1</td><td>KO</td><td>Premadasa, Colombo</td></tr><tr><td>05 Mar 2026</td><td>3:00 PM</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>05 Mar 2026</td><td>7:00 PM (IST)</td><td>SF2</td><td>KO</td><td>Mumbai</td></tr><tr><td>06 Mar 2026</td><td>3:00 PM</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>06 Mar 2026</td><td>7:00 PM</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>07 Mar 2026</td><td>3:00 PM</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>07 Mar 2026</td><td>7:00 PM</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>08 Mar 2026</td><td>7:00 PM (SLST)</td><td>FINAL</td><td>KO</td><td>Premadasa, Colombo</td></tr><tr><td>08 Mar 2026</td><td>7:00 PM (IST)</td><td>FINAL</td><td>KO</td><td>Ahmedabad</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

The top two teams from each group will move to the Super Eight stage. After Super Eight, the top two in each group will move into the semi-finals. The semi-finals are set for March 4 and 5, whereas the final will be held on March 8.&nbsp;If Pakistan make it to the first semi-final and the final, both games will take place at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. If they do not qualify, the first semi-final will be played in Kolkata, and the final will be held in Ahmedabad.<h2>T20 World Cup 2026 - Complete squads of all teams</h2>India: Suryakumar Yadav (c), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar and Rinku Singh&nbsp;Pakistan: Salman Ali Agha (c), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Nafay, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan and Usman Tariq&nbsp;Australia: Mitchell Marsh (c), Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Renshaw, Marcus Stoinis, and Adam Zampa&nbsp;England: Harry Brook (c), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Josh Tongue and Luke Wood&nbsp;South Africa: Aiden Markram (c), Quinton de Kock, Tony de Zorzi, Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Donovan Ferreira, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Kwena Maphaka, Lungi Ngidi, Jason Smith, George Linde, Corbin Bosch and Anrich Nortje&nbsp;New Zealand: Mitchell Santner (c), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Adam Milne, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Seifert and Ish Sodhi&nbsp;West Indies: Shai Hope (c), Shimron Hetmyer, Johnson Charles, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Quentin Sampson, Jayden Seales and Romario Shepherd&nbsp;Sri Lanka: Dasun Shanaka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Janith Perera, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathnayake, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana and Eshan Malinga&nbsp;&nbsp;Afghanistan: Rashid Khan (c), Noor Ahmad, Abdullah Ahmadzai, Sediqullah Atal, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Naveen Ul Haq, Mohammad Ishaq, Shahidullah Kamal, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Darwish Rasooli and Ibrahim Zadran&nbsp;&nbsp;Ireland: Paul Stirling (c), Mark Adair, Ross Adair, Ben Calitz, Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Matthew Humphreys, Josh Little, Barry McCarthy, Harry Tector, Tim Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Ben White and Craig Young&nbsp;&nbsp;Zimbabwe: Sikandar Raza (c), Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Graeme Cremer, Bradley Evans, Clive Madande, Tinotenda Maposa, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava and Brendan Taylor&nbsp;USA: Monank Patel (c), Jessy Singh, Andries Gous, Shehan Jayasuriya, Milind Kumar, Shayan Jahangir, Saiteja Mukkamala, Sanjay Krishnamurthi, Harmeet Singh, Nosthush Kenjige, Shadley Van Schalkwyk, Saurabh Netravalkar, Ali Khan, Mohammad Mohsin and Shubham Ranjane&nbsp;&nbsp;Netherlands: Scott Edwards (c), Colin Ackermann, Noah Croes, Bas de Leede, Aryan Dutt, Fred Klaassen, Kyle Klein, Michael Levitt, Zach Lion-Cachet, Max O'Dowd, Logan van Beek, Timm van der Gugten, Roelof van der Merwe, Paul van Meekeren and Saqib Zulfiqar&nbsp;Scotland: Richie Berrington (c), Tom Bruce, Matthew Cross, Bradley Currie, Oliver Davidson, Chris Greaves, Zainullah Ihsan, Michael Jones, Michael Leask, Finlay McCreath, Brandon McMullen, George Munsey, Safyaan Sharif, Mark Watt and Bradley Wheal&nbsp;Nepal: Rohit Paudel (c), Dipendra Singh Airee, Sandeep Lamichhane, Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh, Sundeep Jora, Aarif Sheikh, Basir Ahamad, Sompal Kami, Karan KC, Nandan Yadav, Gulshan Jha, Lalit Rajbanshi, Sher Malla and Lokesh Bam&nbsp;Namibia: Gerhard Erasmus (c), Zane Green, Bernard Scholtz, Ruben Trumpelmann, JJ Smit, Jan Frylinck, Louren Steenkamp, Malan Kruger, Nicol Loftie-Eaton, Jack Brassell, Ben Shikongo, JC Balt, Dylan Leicher, WP Myburgh and Max Heingo&nbsp;Oman: Jatinder Singh (c), Vinayak Shukla, Mohammad Nadeem, Shakeel Ahmad, Hammad Mirza, Wasim Ali, Karan Sonavale, Shah Faisal, Nadeem Khan, Sufyan Mehmood, Jay Odedra, Shafiq Jan, Ashish Odedara, Jiten Ramanandi and Aamir Kaleem&nbsp;&nbsp;Canada: Dilpreet Bajwa (c), Ajayveer Hundal, Ansh Patel, Dilon Heyliger, Harsh Thaker, Jaskarandeep Buttar, Kaleem Sana, Kanwarpal Tathgur, Navneet Dhaliwal, Nicholas Kirton, Ravinderpal Singh, Saad Bin Zafar, Shivam Sharma, Shreyas Movva and Yuvraj Samra&nbsp;UAE: Muhammad Waseem (c), Alishan Sharafu, Aryansh Sharma, Dhruv Parashar, Haider Ali, Harshit Kaushik, Junaid Siddique, Mayank Kumar, Muhammad Arfan, Muhammad Farooq, Muhammad Jawadullah, Muhammad Zohaib, Rohid Khan, Sohaib Khan and Simranjeet Singh&nbsp;&nbsp;Italy: Wayne Madsen (c), Marcus Campopiano, Gian Piero Meade, Zain Ali, Ali Hasan, Crishan Jorge Kalugamage, Harry Manenti, Anthony Mosca, Justin Mosca, Syed Naqvi, Benjamin Manenti, Jaspreet Singh, JJ Smuts, Grant Stewart and Thomas Draca

This will be the 10th edition of the T20 World Cup, which takes place in every two years. India are placed in Group A with Pakistan, the Netherlands, Namibia and the USA.

The 2026 T20 World Cup will start on Feb 7, with India and Sri Lanka co-hosting the event. A total of 20 teams will compete and they have been divided into four groups of five sides each. India are placed in Group A with Pakistan, the Netherlands, Namibia and the USA. India, who have won the tournament twice and are the current champions will start their campaign against the USA at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on Feb 7. Group B includes former champions Australia, co-hosts Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, Ireland and Oman. While, Group C features two-time winners England and West Indies, along with Scotland, Nepal and Italy. It will be Italy’s first time playing in a T20 World Cup. Also Read - RCB vs DC, WPL 2026 Final: When and where to watch Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Delhi Capitals match live streaming in India? T20 World Cup 2026 groups Group A: India, Pakistan, Netherlands, Namibia and USA Group B: Sri Lanka, Australia, Zimbabwe, Ireland and Oman Group C: England, West Indies, Scotland, Nepal and Italy Group D: South Africa, New Zealand, Afghanistan, UAE and Canada Also Check - Meet top 5 Indian batters with most runs in T20 World Cup history Complete schedule of the T20 World Cup 2026

This will be the 10th edition of the T20 World Cup, which takes place in every two years. India are placed in Group A with Pakistan, the Netherlands, Namibia and the USA.

T20 World Cup 2026: Here's the complete match schedule, groups, venues, squads & timings

T20 WC Bowling Records: Bangladesh's Shakib has most wickets (50), India's Arshdeep and Afghanistan's Farooqi have most wickets (17) in one edition while Sri Lanka'a Ajanthan Mendis has best bowling figures in an innings - 6/8 in 2007 T20 World Cup.

T20 World Cup Bowling Records: Meet bowlers with most wickets, best bowling, most runs conceded and more

Ishan Kishan, after his 20-ball 53 in the T20 World Cup 2026 warm-up match against South Africa on Wednesday (Feb 4), is the front-runner to open the batting ahead of Sanju Samson come main tournament. The left-hand batter made a sensational comeback to the Indian team just before the T20 World Cup 2026 on the back of a strong Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) tournament and has put Samson, India's designated opener since T20 World Cup 2024, in spot. Samson's poor form including scoring just 40-odd runs in the recent five-T20I home series against New Zeland has also not helped his case. Kishan, after scoring 214 runs in three games vs NZ, has now shared his feeling about 'wanting to open', giving India a dilemma to settle about backing first choice player or in-form batter before they take on USA on Feb 7 in their T20 WC campaign opener in Mumbai.<h2>Kishan shares thoughts on opening batting in T20 WC warm up match vs SA</h2>Kishan's 20-ball 53 before being retired out was the highlight of his opening partnership with Abhishek Sharma, who himself scored 18-ball 24 before retiring hurt. The duo added 80 runs for the first wicket in just 5.3 overs, with Kishan hitting 22 &nbsp;of 29 runs in the 5th over bowled by Anrich Nortje which included three sixes and a four as well. The only thing which can go against him is that India preferring left-right combination at the top and hence giving Samson a go ahead.Speaking after the match, Kishan said: "I was really excited for Wednesday (Feb 4). I wanted to open the innings. Batting at number three, I enjoyed that situation, but with the World Cup coming up, no matter what position I bat in, my focus is always on doing my best for the team. I think it’s about staying in the present, watching the ball and playing the shots that are required at that point in time. I’m not putting too much thought or effort into it. I’m just reacting, watching the ball, and playing accordingly, and that seems to be working well for me."India squad for T20 World Cup 2026: Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Rinku SinghIndia match schedule for T20 World Cup 2026: IND vs USA (Feb 7 in Mumbai), IND vs NAMIBIA (Feb 12 in Delhi), IND vs PAK (Feb 15 in Colombo), IND vs NETHERLANDS (Feb 18 in Ahmedabad)

Kishan made a sensational comeback to the Indian team just before the T20 World Cup 2026 on the back of a strong SMAT and has put Samson, India's designated opener since T20 WC 2024, in spot. The only thing which can go against him is that India preferring left-right combination at the top.

Ishan Kishan, after his 20-ball 53 in the T20 World Cup 2026 warm-up match against South Africa on Wednesday (Feb 4), is the front-runner to open the batting ahead of Sanju Samson come main tournament. The left-hand batter made a sensational comeback to the Indian team just before the T20 World Cup 2026 on the back of a strong Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) tournament and has put Samson, India's designated opener since T20 World Cup 2024, in spot. Samson's poor form including scoring just 40-odd runs in the recent five-T20I home series against New Zeland has also not helped his case. Kishan, after scoring 214 runs in three games vs NZ, has now shared his feeling about 'wanting to open', giving India a dilemma to settle about backing first choice player or in-form batter before they take on USA on Feb 7 in their T20 WC campaign opener in Mumbai. Kishan shares thoughts on opening batting in T20 WC warm up match vs SA Kishan's 20-ball 53 before being retired out was the highlight of his opening partnership with Abhishek Sharma, who himself scored 18-ball 24 before retiring hurt. The duo added 80 runs for the first wicket in just 5.3 overs, with Kishan hitting 22 of 29 runs in the 5th over bowled by Anrich Nortje which included three sixes and a four as well. The only thing which can go against him is that India preferring left-right combination at the top and hence giving Samson a go ahead. Speaking after the match, Kishan said: "I was really excited for Wednesday (Feb 4). I wanted to open the innings. Batting at number three, I enjoyed that situation, but with the World Cup coming up, no matter what position I bat in, my focus is always on doing my best for the team. I think it’s about staying in the present, watching the ball and playing the shots that are required at that point in time. I’m not putting too much thought or effort into it. I’m just reacting, watching the ball, and playing accordingly, and that seems to be working well for me." India squad for T20 World Cup 2026: Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Rinku Singh India match schedule for T20 World Cup 2026: IND vs USA (Feb 7 in Mumbai), IND vs NAMIBIA (Feb 12 in Delhi), IND vs PAK (Feb 15 in Colombo), IND vs NETHERLANDS (Feb 18 in Ahmedabad)

Kishan made a sensational comeback to the Indian team just before the T20 World Cup 2026 on the back of a strong SMAT and has put Samson, India's designated opener since T20 WC 2024, in spot. The only thing which can go against him is that India preferring left-right combination at the top.

T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Enjoyed number 3 but...,' Kishan's blistering from puts Samson in spot ahead of India's title defence

Pakistan prime minister Shehbaz Sharif has revealed the reason behind boycotting the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 match against arch-rivals India. The two teams, slotted in Group A alongside Netherlands, Namibia, and USA, are scheduled to play on Feb 15 in Colombo, Sri Lanka - which is co-hosting the tournament with India. This is the first time a Pakistan official, the PM nonetheless, has publicly shared the reason behind not playing India in the upcoming ICC tournament. The decision was announced on Sunday (Feb 1) with Sharif noting that 'politics should not mix with sports.'<h2>Shehbaz Sharif shares why Pakistan boycotting India match in T20 World Cup 2026</h2>Speaking to his cabinate on Wednesday (Feb 4), Sharif, as reported by ESPNCricinfo, said: "We have taken a very clear stand on the T20 World Cup that we won't play the match against India because there should be no politics on the sports field. We have taken a very considered stance, and we should completely stand by Bangladesh, and I think this is a very appropriate decision."Also Check: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-watch-gambhir-reacts-to-pakistan-boycotting-india-match-on-feb-15-1770181270521">T20 World Cup 2026 | WATCH - Gambhir reacts to Pakistan boycotting India match on Feb 15</a>Notably, Bangladesh was replaced by Scotland after it refused to travel to India for the T20 World Cup matches citing security concerns. The International Cricket Council (ICC) denied Bangladesh's request and were eventually replaced.Paksitan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi had called out the ICC over the double standards, invoking India's example of Champions Trophy 2025. After India refused to travel to Pakistan (host) for the tournament, the matches were shifted to Dubai in UAE and India came out triumphant in the tournament.<h2>What is <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-itself-a-member-and-beneficiary-icc-warns-pakistan-of-implications-of-not-playing-india-1769995014124">ICC's response</a> to Pakistan boycotting India match</h2>The ICC has warned the PCB of 'long-term' implications of their stance. Pakistan, which were with Bangladesh in its demand of shifting matches outside India, will however be taking part in the tournament as confirmed in the same Feb 1 statement. The ICC althoug has not received any official confirmation from the PCB over the boycott and has also <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-no-icc-meeting-scheduled-for-now-to-discuss-pak-boycotting-india-match-report-1770081239701">not convened any board meeting to discuss possible sanctions</a>. By boycotting India match, Pakistan has made it hard for itself to advance to the next stage of the tournament while making it easier for India as they will be awarded full points of the match, shall the boycott goes through.

This is the first time a Pakistan official, the PM nonetheless, has publicly shared the reason behind not playing India on Feb 15 in Colombo in the upcoming ICC tournament. The decision was announced on Sunday (Feb 1) with Sharif noting that 'politics should not mix with sports.'

Pakistan prime minister Shehbaz Sharif has revealed the reason behind boycotting the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 match against arch-rivals India. The two teams, slotted in Group A alongside Netherlands, Namibia, and USA, are scheduled to play on Feb 15 in Colombo, Sri Lanka - which is co-hosting the tournament with India. This is the first time a Pakistan official, the PM nonetheless, has publicly shared the reason behind not playing India in the upcoming ICC tournament. The decision was announced on Sunday (Feb 1) with Sharif noting that 'politics should not mix with sports.' Shehbaz Sharif shares why Pakistan boycotting India match in T20 World Cup 2026 Speaking to his cabinate on Wednesday (Feb 4), Sharif, as reported by ESPNCricinfo, said: "We have taken a very clear stand on the T20 World Cup that we won't play the match against India because there should be no politics on the sports field. We have taken a very considered stance, and we should completely stand by Bangladesh, and I think this is a very appropriate decision." Also Check: T20 World Cup 2026 | WATCH - Gambhir reacts to Pakistan boycotting India match on Feb 15 Notably, Bangladesh was replaced by Scotland after it refused to travel to India for the T20 World Cup matches citing security concerns. The International Cricket Council (ICC) denied Bangladesh's request and were eventually replaced. Paksitan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi had called out the ICC over the double standards, invoking India's example of Champions Trophy 2025. After India refused to travel to Pakistan (host) for the tournament, the matches were shifted to Dubai in UAE and India came out triumphant in the tournament. What is ICC's response to Pakistan boycotting India match The ICC has warned the PCB of 'long-term' implications of their stance. Pakistan, which were with Bangladesh in its demand of shifting matches outside India, will however be taking part in the tournament as confirmed in the same Feb 1 statement. The ICC althoug has not received any official confirmation from the PCB over the boycott and has also not convened any board meeting to discuss possible sanctions. By boycotting India match, Pakistan has made it hard for itself to advance to the next stage of the tournament while making it easier for India as they will be awarded full points of the match, shall the boycott goes through.

This is the first time a Pakistan official, the PM nonetheless, has publicly shared the reason behind not playing India on Feb 15 in Colombo in the upcoming ICC tournament. The decision was announced on Sunday (Feb 1) with Sharif noting that 'politics should not mix with sports.'

T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Won't play the match against India because...': Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif reveals reason behind boycott

T20 World Cup batting records: Sri Lanka (260/6) hit highest team total, Kohli has most runs (1292), most runs in one edition (319) and most 50s (15). Gayle, meanwhile, has hit most 6s (63), most tons (2), most sixes in an innings (11), and most runs in boundaries in an innings (88).

T20 World Cup batting records: Gayle and Kohli lead in 7 of 9 records

T20 World Cup past winners: Only India (2007 & 2024), West Indies (2012 & 2016), and England (2009 & 2022) have won two titles with Pakistan (2009), Sri Lanka (2014), and Australia (2021) winning once each.

T20 World Cup: Only three teams, including India, have two titles - Can you guess all past winners

India head coach Gautam Gambhir, on Tuesday (Feb 3), refused to give a reaction on Pakistan's boycott of India match on in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026. India, entering the tournament as the defending champions, are in Group A along with Pakistan, USA, Netherland, and Namibia. Pakistan are expected to play India on Feb 15 in Colombo in a Group A fixture and failure to do so will see India getting full match points, given skipper Suryakumar Yadav is present at the toss. The boycott can potentially hurt Pakistan's chances to move to the next stage while making it easier for India to advance.<h2>Gambhir gives first reaction on Pakistan boycotting India match in T20 World Cup 2026</h2>India coach Gambhir was spotted at Delhi airport on Tuesday (Feb 3) when the reporters asked him about his thoughts on Pakistan's boycott of India match in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026. The head coach, while thanking the reporters for their well-wished, refused to answer the Pakistan question. Have a look at the video below:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Indian Cricket Team Head Coach Gautam Gambhir leaves for Mumbai. <a href="https://t.co/6fBlclolVO">pic.twitter.com/6fBlclolVO</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2018681998835888267?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

While Pakistan has given no official reason for boycotting India match, it is possible that the step has been taken in solidarity with Bangladesh, which have been replaced in the tournament by Scotland. ICC replaced Bangladesh after the Asian country's refusal to travel to India for the World Cup matches, citing security threat.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-toss-becomes-crucial-dhoni-shares-what-worries-him-about-1770178247735">T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Toss becomes crucial': Dhoni on what worries him about India's title defence</a>Pakistan had supported Bangladesh's demand of shifting the matches outside India but ICC did not budge. After Bangladesh's replacement, Pakistan left their participation in limbo, confirming only on Sunday (Feb 1) that they will play the tournament but not India.India squad for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026: Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Rinku Singh.Pakistan squad for ICC T20 World Cup 2026: Salman Ali Agha (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Mohammad Nafay (wicketkeeper), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (wicketkeeper), Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan, Usman Tariq.

While Pakistan has given no official reason for boycotting India match, it is possible that the step has been taken in solidarity with Bangladesh, which have been replaced in the tournament by Scotland. Pakistan are expected to play India on Feb 15 in Colombo in a Group A fixture.

India head coach Gautam Gambhir, on Tuesday (Feb 3), refused to give a reaction on Pakistan's boycott of India match on in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026. India, entering the tournament as the defending champions, are in Group A along with Pakistan, USA, Netherland, and Namibia. Pakistan are expected to play India on Feb 15 in Colombo in a Group A fixture and failure to do so will see India getting full match points, given skipper Suryakumar Yadav is present at the toss. The boycott can potentially hurt Pakistan's chances to move to the next stage while making it easier for India to advance. Gambhir gives first reaction on Pakistan boycotting India match in T20 World Cup 2026 India coach Gambhir was spotted at Delhi airport on Tuesday (Feb 3) when the reporters asked him about his thoughts on Pakistan's boycott of India match in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026. The head coach, while thanking the reporters for their well-wished, refused to answer the Pakistan question. Have a look at the video below:

While Pakistan has given no official reason for boycotting India match, it is possible that the step has been taken in solidarity with Bangladesh, which have been replaced in the tournament by Scotland. Pakistan are expected to play India on Feb 15 in Colombo in a Group A fixture.

T20 World Cup 2026 | WATCH - Gambhir reacts to Pakistan boycotting India match on Feb 15

Former India skipper MS Dhoni, under whom the team won inaugural 2007 T20 World Cup, has declared the Suryakumar Yadav-led team as 'one of the most dangerous' in the upcoming edition of the tournament. India enter T20 World Cup 2026, which starts Feb 7, as defending champions, having won the last edition under Rohit Sharma in 2024. Dhoni, however, warned of dew which, according to India's most successful captain, can change things including toss. The 20-team tournament is being co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka with dew expected to play a role in the tournament.<h2>Dhoni's verdict on current India team for T20 World up 2026</h2>"It’s one of the most dangerous teams,” Dhoni said at an event recently about India’s chances of retaining the title. "You know, they would have already started batting or bowling. But what all is needed in a good team? Everything is there.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-it-will-be-not-out-mcc-makes-changes-to-how-batter-is-declared-hit-wicket-out-1770175676616">'It will be not out': MCC makes changes to how a batter is declared hit-wicket out</a>"They have the experience. Especially when it comes to this format, the experience is vast. They have played under pressure. Whoever is playing whatever roles they are playing in the team, they have been in that situation for a considerable period of time," the former skipper added.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Are India favourites to defend their crown ? Who better than <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> to answer … <a href="https://t.co/9FSVFCJzIM">pic.twitter.com/9FSVFCJzIM</a>&mdash; Jatin Sapru (@jatinsapru) <a href="https://twitter.com/jatinsapru/status/2018747307500666985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Dew will be a crucial factor in T20 World Cup 2026</h2>While the Indian team has the talent and players to retain the title, Dhoni says 'dew' is something which can change a lot of things."What worries me? Again, I hate dew. Dew changes a lot of things. So, even when I was playing, something that really scared me was dew. Where the toss becomes crucial and all of that," Dhoni said.India, which are in Group A along with Paksita, USA, Namibia, and Netherland, start their campaign on Feb 7 against the USA in Mumbai. India next play Namibia on Feb 12 in Delhi before taking on Pakistan on Feb 15 in Colombo, Sri Lanka. India vs Pakistan, however, is uncertain as of now with Pakistan government announcing boycott of the match. India finish the group stage matches against Netherlands on Feb 18 in Ahmedabad.If we are playing 10 matches with some of the best teams, we will come out as winners more often than not, if the conditions remain neutral,” he noted.&nbsp;

India, which are in Group A along with Paksita, USA, Namibia, and Netherland, start their campaign on Feb 7 against the USA in Mumbai. India enter T20 World Cup 2026 as defending champions, having won the last edition under Rohit Sharma in 2024.

Former India skipper MS Dhoni, under whom the team won inaugural 2007 T20 World Cup, has declared the Suryakumar Yadav-led team as 'one of the most dangerous' in the upcoming edition of the tournament. India enter T20 World Cup 2026, which starts Feb 7, as defending champions, having won the last edition under Rohit Sharma in 2024. Dhoni, however, warned of dew which, according to India's most successful captain, can change things including toss. The 20-team tournament is being co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka with dew expected to play a role in the tournament. Dhoni's verdict on current India team for T20 World up 2026 "It’s one of the most dangerous teams,” Dhoni said at an event recently about India’s chances of retaining the title. "You know, they would have already started batting or bowling. But what all is needed in a good team? Everything is there. Also Read: 'It will be not out': MCC makes changes to how a batter is declared hit-wicket out "They have the experience. Especially when it comes to this format, the experience is vast. They have played under pressure. Whoever is playing whatever roles they are playing in the team, they have been in that situation for a considerable period of time," the former skipper added.

India, which are in Group A along with Paksita, USA, Namibia, and Netherland, start their campaign on Feb 7 against the USA in Mumbai. India enter T20 World Cup 2026 as defending champions, having won the last edition under Rohit Sharma in 2024.

T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Toss becomes crucial': Dhoni on what worries him about India's title defence

Former Delhi Capitals coach and Australian skipper Ricky Ponting has revealed that he 'pleaded' the IPL franchise to not trade India opener Abhishek Sharma. The DC coach is now with Punjab Kings and Abhishek plays for SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH). Ponting said he found Abhishek special one he saw him bat but he was traded to SRH where he forms one half of the destructive opening combination with Travis Head. Abhishek is now also one of the most fearsome attacking openers in the world cricket, set to play his first ICC tournament in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 which begins on Feb 7.<h2>Ponting reveals he pleaded DC to not trade Abhishek</h2>"I was his first IPL coach," Ponting said on the ICC review. "He debuted with me, I think as a 17-year-old at Delhi and made an immediate impact. I think he hit his first ball for four or six straight back over the bowler's head with that classical sort of straight bat and held the pose. And you could just see then as a 17-year-old that there was something extra special.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-warns-pcb-of-legal-action-from-indian-broadcaster-jiostar-after-t20-world-cup-match-boycott-threat-1770129040457">ICC warns PCB of legal action from JioStar after India match boycott threat</a>"We ended up trading him away from Delhi, but I pleaded and pleaded and pleaded and said, please don't do this. We've got to [keep him], there's an absolute superstar in the making here. And that's what it's turned out to be. I've got really high hopes for him this time."Abhishek had hit unbeaten 46 off 19 balls on his IPL debut while playing for Delhi Capitals. He is now a rock at the top for SRH, hitting 1753 runs in 71 innings for them, at a strike rate of 162.16.<h2>Abhishek's failure makes India vulnerable</h2>Ponting also opined that Abhishek's form would be crucial for India's defence of the T20 World Cup. "[It's] a real positive to be honest. He can be the leading run-scorer and potentially the Player of the Tournament. That's how good I think he is. And if he does, that makes India even harder to beat. If he doesn't, then they're as vulnerable as anybody else. So that's how important I think he is to this World Cup for India."

Abhishek had hit unbeaten 46 off 19 balls on his IPL debut while playing for Delhi Capitals. He is now a rock at the top for SRH, hitting 1753 runs in 71 innings for them, at a strike rate of 162.16.

Former Delhi Capitals coach and Australian skipper Ricky Ponting has revealed that he 'pleaded' the IPL franchise to not trade India opener Abhishek Sharma. The DC coach is now with Punjab Kings and Abhishek plays for SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH). Ponting said he found Abhishek special one he saw him bat but he was traded to SRH where he forms one half of the destructive opening combination with Travis Head. Abhishek is now also one of the most fearsome attacking openers in the world cricket, set to play his first ICC tournament in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 which begins on Feb 7. Ponting reveals he pleaded DC to not trade Abhishek "I was his first IPL coach," Ponting said on the ICC review. "He debuted with me, I think as a 17-year-old at Delhi and made an immediate impact. I think he hit his first ball for four or six straight back over the bowler's head with that classical sort of straight bat and held the pose. And you could just see then as a 17-year-old that there was something extra special. Also Read: ICC warns PCB of legal action from JioStar after India match boycott threat "We ended up trading him away from Delhi, but I pleaded and pleaded and pleaded and said, please don't do this. We've got to [keep him], there's an absolute superstar in the making here. And that's what it's turned out to be. I've got really high hopes for him this time." Abhishek had hit unbeaten 46 off 19 balls on his IPL debut while playing for Delhi Capitals. He is now a rock at the top for SRH, hitting 1753 runs in 71 innings for them, at a strike rate of 162.16. Abhishek's failure makes India vulnerable Ponting also opined that Abhishek's form would be crucial for India's defence of the T20 World Cup. "[It's] a real positive to be honest. He can be the leading run-scorer and potentially the Player of the Tournament. That's how good I think he is. And if he does, that makes India even harder to beat. If he doesn't, then they're as vulnerable as anybody else. So that's how important I think he is to this World Cup for India."

Abhishek had hit unbeaten 46 off 19 balls on his IPL debut while playing for Delhi Capitals. He is now a rock at the top for SRH, hitting 1753 runs in 71 innings for them, at a strike rate of 162.16.

'I pleaded and pleaded': Ponting on asking DC to not trade Abhishek in IPL

Former Australia opener Usman Khawaja has backed Pakistan spinner Usman Tariq for being called 'chucker.' Tariq's side-arm action became viral after he dismissed Aussie all-rounder Cameron Green in the second of the three T20I in the recently-concluded series. After being dismissed, Green, while back to the dugout, was seen gesturing like Tariq's action and clearly not pleased with it. The former Aussie opener, who is of Pakistan origin, however, has came in full support of Tariq and asked people to stop jumping to conclusions.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-had-a-follow-up-scan-cummins-reveals-why-is-he-missing-from-australia-squad-1770086022487">T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Had a follow-up scan': Cummins reveals why is he missing from Australia squad</a><h2>Ex-Aussie Khawaja backs Pak's Tariq in action controversy vs AUS in T20I series</h2>Taking to Instagram, Khawaja posted on stories: "There aren’t many things worse than being called a chucker in cricket. The stigma is real. The man is just doing his beest and has been cleared twice. Let’s have some perspective and understanding and stop jumping to conclusions," he added. Have a look at Tariq's action below:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">If the ICC has already cleared Usman Tariq&#39;s bowling action ICC should penalise Cameron Green for this stupid gesture. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICC</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PCB</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/usmantariq?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#usmantariq</a> <a href="https://t.co/wPfAh3ge2t">pic.twitter.com/wPfAh3ge2t</a>&mdash; 𝑭𝒂𝒉𝒂𝒅 🇵🇰 (@FahadChishte) <a href="https://twitter.com/FahadChishte/status/2017662112395628641?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The Pak spinner, also explained his action, which he said is because of a biological condition. "There are two corners on my elbow which make it hard for me to straighten. That causes confusion for the spectators. I have given two tests at labs in Pakistan. My action was cleared. I was confident about my actiion because I know that I am not throwing."<h2>Tariq part of Pak's T20 World Cup 2026</h2>Tariq, who played only one T20I in the series against Australia which his team won 3-0, is part of Pakistan's T20 World Cup 2026 squad as well. Pakistan are placed in Group A along with India, USA, Netherlands, and Namibia. The Men in Green are scheduled to play vs Netherlands (Feb 7), vs USA (Feb 10), vs India (Feb 15), and vs Namibia (Feb 18). Pakistan, however, has decided to boycott the match against India for which the ICC has warned them of 'long-term implications.'

Tariq's side-arm action became viral after he dismissed Aussie all-rounder Cameron Green in the second of the three T20I in the recently-concluded series. The Pak spinner, who is part of Pakistan's WC squad, also explained his action, which he said is because of a biological condition.

Former Australia opener Usman Khawaja has backed Pakistan spinner Usman Tariq for being called 'chucker.' Tariq's side-arm action became viral after he dismissed Aussie all-rounder Cameron Green in the second of the three T20I in the recently-concluded series. After being dismissed, Green, while back to the dugout, was seen gesturing like Tariq's action and clearly not pleased with it. The former Aussie opener, who is of Pakistan origin, however, has came in full support of Tariq and asked people to stop jumping to conclusions. Also Read: T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Had a follow-up scan': Cummins reveals why is he missing from Australia squad Ex-Aussie Khawaja backs Pak's Tariq in action controversy vs AUS in T20I series Taking to Instagram, Khawaja posted on stories: "There aren’t many things worse than being called a chucker in cricket. The stigma is real. The man is just doing his beest and has been cleared twice. Let’s have some perspective and understanding and stop jumping to conclusions," he added. Have a look at Tariq's action below:

Tariq's side-arm action became viral after he dismissed Aussie all-rounder Cameron Green in the second of the three T20I in the recently-concluded series. The Pak spinner, who is part of Pakistan's WC squad, also explained his action, which he said is because of a biological condition.

PAK vs AUS T20Is | 'Have some perspective': Ex-Aussie Khawaja backs Pak spinner in bowling action cotroversy vs Australia

Australia Test and ODI skipper Pat Cummins says that he 'ran out of time' to become fit for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026. Cummins was not included in Australia's final squad for the tournament, which begins Feb 7. The Aussie pacer is dealing with a back injury since Australia tour of Caribbean and has not taken part in much of Australia's competitive cricket played. The pacer last appeared in third of the five Ashes Tests at home against England. With the urn retained, Cummins decided to rest and try to be fit for the upcoming T20 World Cup, but alas, it wasn't meant to be for him.<h2>Why Cummins isn't playing in T20 World Cp 2026 for Australia?</h2>"I feel pretty good, just a minor setback and just ran out of time really," Cummins was quoted as saying to AAP. "We knew after the [Adelaide] Test match we were going to need somewhere between four and eight weeks to let the bone settle right down before then building back up. Initially, we thought it might only be four weeks, because I was feeling really good, but just had a follow-up scan. They thought it probably needs another couple of weeks, so the timeline just became a bit too tight," he added.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-no-icc-meeting-scheduled-for-now-to-discuss-pak-boycotting-india-match-report-1770081239701">T20 World Cup 2026 | No ICC meeting scheduled for now to discuss Pak boycotting India match - Report</a>Speaking on the future plans, Cummins confirmed: "I'll rest up for a few weeks and go from there." Australia have bumper cricket planned starting from hosting Bangladesh for two Tests in August, followed by a tour of South Africa since the infamous 2018 sandpaper gate. A Test tour to India is next in 2027 with an away Ashes also scheduled as well as the 2027 ODI World Cup and a potential World Test Champinship (WTC) final as well.<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-hazlewood-likely-to-miss-early-matches-australia-name-travelling-reserve-1770015403262">Australia get Hazlewood jolt ahead of T20 World Cup</a></h2>In a blow to their plans, Australia may have to do without ace pacer Josh Hazlewood in the initial phase of the T20 World Cup. The pacer is recoveing from the Achillies injury and Sean Abbott has been added a travelling reserve to the squad. Australia start their campaign on Feb 11 against Ireland followed by a match against Zimbabwe (Feb 13) and Sri Lanka (Feb 16) before finishing the group stage fixtures agains Oman (Feb 20).&nbsp;

The pacer, recovering from a back injury, last appeared in third of the five Ashes Tests at home against England. With the urn retained, Cummins decided to rest and try to be fit for the upcoming T20 World Cup, but alas, it wasn't meant to be for him.

Australia Test and ODI skipper Pat Cummins says that he 'ran out of time' to become fit for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026. Cummins was not included in Australia's final squad for the tournament, which begins Feb 7. The Aussie pacer is dealing with a back injury since Australia tour of Caribbean and has not taken part in much of Australia's competitive cricket played. The pacer last appeared in third of the five Ashes Tests at home against England. With the urn retained, Cummins decided to rest and try to be fit for the upcoming T20 World Cup, but alas, it wasn't meant to be for him. Why Cummins isn't playing in T20 World Cp 2026 for Australia? "I feel pretty good, just a minor setback and just ran out of time really," Cummins was quoted as saying to AAP. "We knew after the [Adelaide] Test match we were going to need somewhere between four and eight weeks to let the bone settle right down before then building back up. Initially, we thought it might only be four weeks, because I was feeling really good, but just had a follow-up scan. They thought it probably needs another couple of weeks, so the timeline just became a bit too tight," he added. Also Read: T20 World Cup 2026 | No ICC meeting scheduled for now to discuss Pak boycotting India match - Report Speaking on the future plans, Cummins confirmed: "I'll rest up for a few weeks and go from there." Australia have bumper cricket planned starting from hosting Bangladesh for two Tests in August, followed by a tour of South Africa since the infamous 2018 sandpaper gate. A Test tour to India is next in 2027 with an away Ashes also scheduled as well as the 2027 ODI World Cup and a potential World Test Champinship (WTC) final as well. Australia get Hazlewood jolt ahead of T20 World Cup In a blow to their plans, Australia may have to do without ace pacer Josh Hazlewood in the initial phase of the T20 World Cup. The pacer is recoveing from the Achillies injury and Sean Abbott has been added a travelling reserve to the squad. Australia start their campaign on Feb 11 against Ireland followed by a match against Zimbabwe (Feb 13) and Sri Lanka (Feb 16) before finishing the group stage fixtures agains Oman (Feb 20).

The pacer, recovering from a back injury, last appeared in third of the five Ashes Tests at home against England. With the urn retained, Cummins decided to rest and try to be fit for the upcoming T20 World Cup, but alas, it wasn't meant to be for him.

T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Had a follow-up scan': Cummins reveals why is he missing from Australia squad

Pakistan left the cricket world not very amused with their decision to not play India in the group stage match (Feb 15) of the upcoming T20 World up 206. The decision, on behalf of the Pakistan government, came on Sunday (Feb 1) while confirming the team's participation in the ICC tournament which starts Feb 7. While the ICC has warned the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) of 'long-term implications' of the decision, there's been so far no meeting scheduled to discuss and levy any sanctions on the 2009 T20 World Cup winners. The apex body has also confirmed receiving no formal communication from Pakistan on their stance.<h2>No ICC meeting scheduled as of not to discuss Pak</h2>As per the protocols, the ICC initiates a board meeting by notifying all 12 full members as well as three associate nation members. As per ESPNCricinfo, the ICC has not sent an invite to any of the members to discuss the ongoing situation. The PCB, meanwhile, has also indicated no interest in responding officially to the ICC's statement, citing the decision to not play India match is not taken by them but the national government. The PCB's inability to overcome government's decision does put the ICC in a tricky position as far as the sanctions are concerned.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-official-vice-president-rajeev-shukla-supports-icc-action-pakistan-following-india-match-boycott-threat-1770029291161">BCCI official supports ICC action against Pakistan following India match boycott threat</a><h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-can-t-have-double-standards-ex-icc-pcb-chair-says-pakistan-can-t-be-punished-for-india-match-boycott-1770047796325">Former ICC chair says Pak can't be punished</a></h2>Former ICC and PCB chairman Ehsan Mani, while opining his views on the matter, has said that PCB can't be punished for not taking the field agains India in the T20 World Cup 2026. Mani argued that the decision is taken by the Pakistan government and not the cricket board itself, which leaves ICC with the little room to sanction PCB.In case PCB goes ahead with the boycott, India would be awarded the full points for the match, given that the Indian skipper is present on the ground for the toss unlike Pakistan's captain Salman Agha.

The PCB, meanwhile, has also indicated no interest in responding officially to the ICC's statement, citing the decision to not play India match is not taken by them but the national government.

Pakistan left the cricket world not very amused with their decision to not play India in the group stage match (Feb 15) of the upcoming T20 World up 206. The decision, on behalf of the Pakistan government, came on Sunday (Feb 1) while confirming the team's participation in the ICC tournament which starts Feb 7. While the ICC has warned the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) of 'long-term implications' of the decision, there's been so far no meeting scheduled to discuss and levy any sanctions on the 2009 T20 World Cup winners. The apex body has also confirmed receiving no formal communication from Pakistan on their stance. No ICC meeting scheduled as of not to discuss Pak As per the protocols, the ICC initiates a board meeting by notifying all 12 full members as well as three associate nation members. As per ESPNCricinfo, the ICC has not sent an invite to any of the members to discuss the ongoing situation. The PCB, meanwhile, has also indicated no interest in responding officially to the ICC's statement, citing the decision to not play India match is not taken by them but the national government. The PCB's inability to overcome government's decision does put the ICC in a tricky position as far as the sanctions are concerned. Also Read: BCCI official supports ICC action against Pakistan following India match boycott threat Former ICC chair says Pak can't be punished Former ICC and PCB chairman Ehsan Mani, while opining his views on the matter, has said that PCB can't be punished for not taking the field agains India in the T20 World Cup 2026. Mani argued that the decision is taken by the Pakistan government and not the cricket board itself, which leaves ICC with the little room to sanction PCB. In case PCB goes ahead with the boycott, India would be awarded the full points for the match, given that the Indian skipper is present on the ground for the toss unlike Pakistan's captain Salman Agha.

The PCB, meanwhile, has also indicated no interest in responding officially to the ICC's statement, citing the decision to not play India match is not taken by them but the national government.

T20 World Cup 2026 | No ICC meeting scheduled for now to discuss Pak boycotting India match - Report

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T20 WC 2026 | No ICC meeting for now to discuss Pak's India boycott - Report