Indian cricket legends Sunil Gavaskar and Madan Lal have strongly criticised Pakistan’s decision to boycott their T20 World Cup group-stage match against India, warning that the move will ultimately cause more harm to Pakistan cricket than to the tournament organisers.
The reaction comes a day after the Pakistan government confirmed the team would participate in the World Cup but would refuse to take the field against India on February 15 in solidarity with Bangladesh.
Speaking to a news agency, 1983 World Cup winner Madan Lal termed the decision self-destructive.
“I think the Pakistan government and the PCB are harming their own cricket,” Lal said. “They want to support Bangladesh, which is their prerogative, but in the end, the loss will be borne by both Bangladesh and Pakistan.”
Lal dismissed the notion that the boycott would financially cripple the tournament, arguing that the global cricketing economy would simply shift focus.
“Big powers like New Zealand, England, South Africa, and Australia remain. Viewers and sponsorships will eventually move towards them,” he added.
Meanwhile, batting legend Sunil Gavaskar urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to take strict disciplinary action. Speaking to the media, Gavaskar said that a last-minute withdrawal sets a dangerous precedent.
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“If they had withdrawn earlier, it would have been different. But taking such a decision right before the tournament warrants ICC intervention,” Gavaskar said.
“I don’t know what steps the ICC will take, but something must be done to ensure no team thinks of doing this in the future.” He further suggested that the ICC might consider legal action against the PCB for breach of commitment.
However, Gavaskar also hinted that a “U-turn” might still be on the cards. Citing the history of Pakistani players reversing retirement decisions. “When global reactions start pouring in, their stance might change. Pakistani fans might question their government. It wouldn't be surprising if they change their mind before February 15.”
The diplomatic standoff began after the ICC replaced Bangladesh with Scotland in the tournament following Dhaka's refusal to play in India due to security concerns.