SLC Chief Shammi Silva Condemns Pakistan’s “Ungrateful” Boycott of High-Stakes India Clash in Colombo
By Lions Roar News Sports Bureau
COLOMBO, SRI LANKA — Friday, February 6, 2026 — Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) President Shammi Silva has expressed his deep disappointment and frustration with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) following the Pakistan government’s shock decision to boycott the highly anticipated T20 World Cup clash against India.
The match, which was scheduled to take place at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo on February 15, is the centerpiece of the tournament’s group stages. Silva’s sharp rebuke came in a formal letter to the PCB, where he reminded Pakistan of the unwavering support Sri Lanka has provided them during their darkest hours.
1. A Breach of Solidarity: “Lest We Forget”
In his letter, Shammi Silva pointedly reminded the PCB of the risks Sri Lanka Cricket took to support Pakistan when other nations refused to tour.
- The Reminder: Silva noted that the Sri Lankan national team traveled to Pakistan multiple times during challenging and sensitive periods, disregarding security risks to ensure international cricket returned to Pakistani soil.
- The Sentiment: He expressed that Pakistan seems to have “forgotten” this historical brotherhood by pulling out of a crucial match hosted in Sri Lanka.
2. Massive Financial and Economic Blow
The boycott isn’t just a sporting disappointment; it is a significant financial hit to Sri Lanka’s economy and its cricket board.
- Sold Out Success: The India-Pakistan match saw unprecedented demand, with tickets selling out almost instantly. Fans from India, Pakistan, and across the globe had already booked travel and accommodation.
- Logistics & Security: SLC had already finalized all commercial operations, service logistics, and high-level security arrangements for the February 15 showdown.
- Economic Fallout: Silva emphasized that the cancellation of any World Cup match in Sri Lanka—especially one of this magnitude—causes “massive financial loss” to SLC and severely impacts the country’s expected tourism surge.
3. Disappointment for Global Fans
The SLC President highlighted that the excitement for this match was unlike any other in the tournament.
“This match was not just a game; it was a beacon for Sri Lankan spectators and fans from India and Pakistan alike. To cancel it now, after all preparations are complete, is a disservice to the sport and the fans who held such high expectations.”
4. The Political Standoff
The Pakistan government recently announced the boycott, citing ongoing political tensions with India. However, SLC argues that as a co-host and a neutral venue, Sri Lanka should not be the one to bear the economic and reputational brunt of a bilateral dispute between two visiting nations.
