Former pace bowler Chetan Sharma believes Pakistan will return to their decision to boycott the T20 World Cup 2026 match against India in Colombo on February 15. Sharma even said February 12 as the date after which Pakistan will likely change its mind, following the Bangladesh elections as well.

Reacting to Pakistan’s boycott decision, Chetan Sharma said (via India Today): “What was Bangladesh players’ fault? None. This is politics. Bangladesh has elections on the 12th. After that, you’ll see a U-turn. There will be a statement saying, ‘Considering public sentiment, cricket shouldn’t suffer, Pakistan will play against India.’ The stance is still about the Bangladesh election only. After the elections, maybe even the military chief will say that sport should be kept free of politics and the match should go ahead.”

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However, Chetan Sharma further believes a U-turn is on because Pakistan has not officially communicated to the ICC about boycotting the India match as well.

“As of now, Pakistan hasn’t formally communicated anything to the ICC. Statements mean nothing without official confirmation. Anyone can announce retirement—but unless you submit it officially, nothing changes. Who is actually suffering here? Cricket—and the cricketers,” said Chetan Sharma.