Sourav Ganguly on IND vs PAK: The atmosphere is getting heating up day by day regarding the India-Pakistan match ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. This match, scheduled for February 15th in Colombo, was considered the biggest match of the tournament, but now a controversy has erupted after Pakistan refused to play.
Sourav Ganguly surprise at Pakistan decision
Former Indian captain and former BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has openly expressed his views on this decision. Speaking to the media on Sunday, Ganguly said that he was truly surprised by Pakistan’s move. According to him, it is incomprehensible for any team to withdraw from a match in a major tournament like the World Cup.
Sourav Ganguly On IND vs PAK
Sourav Ganguly clearly stated that this match is not being played in India, but in Sri Lanka. Therefore, raising questions about security or the venue doesn’t seem right. He also said that every match and every point is very important in the World Cup. If a team deliberately chooses not to play such a match, it is only harming itself.
Pakistan has taken this decision in support of Bangladesh, which had refused to travel to India. However, cricket experts believe that sports should be kept separate from politics, especially when the tournament is being held at a neutral venue.
Team India clear message: We are ready to play
While Pakistan’s stance is under question, Team India’s position is absolutely clear. Indian T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav has already made it clear that India is fully prepared to play the match.
During the captains’ meeting in Colombo, Suryakumar said that Team India’s mindset is clear. The players’ flights are booked, the planning is complete, and the team has been told that they have to play the match on February 15th. The rest is up to Pakistan to decide.
Suryakumar also reminded everyone that India and Pakistan have played against each other at neutral venues before. The Asia Cup 2025 is a recent example. Therefore, suddenly withdrawing from the match is incomprehensible to anyone. The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is set to begin on February 7th, with the final scheduled for March 8th. India will play its first match against the USA and will then face Namibia, the Netherlands, and Pakistan in Group A. India is the defending champion, and every match is crucial for them.
Currently, all eyes are on the ICC to see what decision they will make regarding this entire situation. But one thing is clear: Team India is ready to play, and legends like Sourav Ganguly believe that there is no point in staying off the field during the World Cup.
