Pakistan PM Sharif Doubles Down on India Boycott, Blames ICC Politics After Bangladesh's Removal

• Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif confirmed his government's decision to boycott the T20 World Cup 2026 match against India.
• Sharif stated the boycott is in opposition to 'politics' in sport and in solidarity with Bangladesh, which was removed from the event.
• Bangladesh was removed by the ICC for refusing to play matches in India, citing a security threat, and was replaced by Scotland.
• The Pakistan government announced on February 1 that they would not play India in the Group A T20 World Cup 2026 match on February 15 in Colombo.
• Reports indicate ongoing 'backchannel' talks between ICC and PCB, as a boycott could lead to a massive $250 million loss for international cricket.