By Digital Spartans 
Pakistan captain Salman Agha has clarified the team’s stance on a potential high-stakes encounter against India in the ICC T20 World Cup, stating that any decision regarding such a match will be taken in consultation with the government. His remarks come amid heightened political tensions that have already influenced the tournament’s structure and fixtures.
Speaking to reporters in Colombo, Agha acknowledged that the possibility of facing India in the semi-final or final remains open if both teams advance. However, he stressed that the matter is not solely within the cricket board or team’s control. According to him, Pakistan will once again seek guidance from the government and act in line with official instructions if such a scenario emerges.
The tournament has unfolded under unusual circumstances. Political developments intensified after Bangladesh declined to travel to India due to security concerns. Following this, the International Cricket Council removed Bangladesh from Group C and brought Scotland into the competition as a replacement. Pakistan supported Bangladesh’s request to relocate matches to Sri Lanka, reflecting regional sensitivities around the event.
Despite these challenges, Pakistan’s participation was ultimately cleared by Islamabad. However, the government instructed the team not to play the scheduled group-stage match against India on February 15. This decision resulted in Pakistan forfeiting two crucial points, a factor that could significantly affect qualification chances and net run rate in an already competitive group.
Agha described the absence of Bangladesh as unfortunate, calling them a strong side that would have added quality to the tournament. He expressed hope that Bangladesh would continue to support Pakistan from afar, highlighting the sense of camaraderie among teams facing similar challenges.
On the sporting front, Pakistan will focus on its remaining group matches against Namibia, the Netherlands, and the United States. The captain admitted that the margin for error is extremely small, especially with the lost points and the added uncertainty of weather interruptions. Still, he emphasized that the team is concentrating on controllable factors and playing disciplined cricket.
The skipper also addressed Pakistan’s motivation heading into the tournament. He recalled the loss to the United States in the previous World Cup and said the squad is determined to learn from past mistakes and make a stronger impact this time. Recent performances have boosted confidence, including a dominant 3–0 home series whitewash against Australia.
Pakistan enter the competition with strong momentum, having not lost a series since the Asia Cup last year. Agha believes the team’s form, balance, and unity are all coming together at the right time.
All of Pakistan’s matches will be played in Sri Lanka, a venue the captain is particularly comfortable with. Calling it a second home, Agha noted that this is his sixth visit to the country and that familiarity with conditions and strong local support could work in Pakistan’s favour.
As the tournament progresses, Pakistan’s campaign will remain under close watch, not only for its on-field performance but also for how geopolitics may shape one of cricket’s most anticipated rivalries.