Suryakumar Yadav has given a clear and unequivocal statement regarding the ongoing uncertainty over Pakistan's participation in the T20 World Cup 2026. (Image X @TheKhelIndia)
New Delhi: Indian cricket team captain Suryakumar Yadav has given a clear and unequivocal statement regarding the ongoing uncertainty over Pakistan's participation in the T20 World Cup 2026. Speaking at the T20 World Cup captains' press conference in Mumbai on Thursday, Surya said that India's stance is completely clear and the team has never refused to play against Pakistan.
"Our mindset regarding Pakistan is absolutely clear. We have never refused to play against them. They are the ones who have refused to play. Our flights are booked, we are going. Our fixtures are ready. We will play against the USA first, then play other matches, and then we will go to Colombo," Suryakumar Yadav said.
"We didn't say no to playing against Pakistan, they said no. ICC scheduled the match, and we are ready to play. Our tickets are booked, and we are going to Colombo after Delhi," theTeam India T20 skipper added.
Surya's statement comes at a time when various speculations are being made about Pakistan's participation. The Indian captain's statement makes it clear that Team India is not affected by any uncertainty and is moving forward with full preparation.
Group A of the T20 World Cup 2026 includes India, Pakistan, Netherlands, Namibia, and the USA. Group A is going to be quite exciting as it features two big names – India and Pakistan – in the same group, while the Netherlands, Namibia, and the USA are teams that will balance the group. Overall, this group promises high-voltage matches for the spectators right from the initial stages. However, Pakistan has refused to play its league match against India.
Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan said that playing in the IPL in India has benefited not only Afghan players but all teams. He said, "Players from all teams are playing in the IPL, so this benefit is not limited to Afghanistan." In the press conference, Rashid also said that expectations from Afghanistan have increased more than ever before and every team has 4-5 match-winning players.
Nepal captain Rohit Paudel described this World Cup as historic for his team. He said, "We are playing in the World Cup after more than 20 years. This is a huge opportunity for us. The next generation will be inspired by this, and hopefully, we can give them something special." Rohit also said that in recent times, Nepal has been giving tough competition to big teams and the win against West Indies has boosted the team's confidence.
England captain Harry Brook, while refraining from reacting too much to the uncertain conditions, said that the team is focusing on the process. He said, "We have to stay in the present moment and see where we reach in the next few weeks. Our effort is to stick to the process." The English captain also acknowledged that big scores can be made on Indian pitches.
He said, "There are many grounds in India where 300 runs can be scored. As a captain, it is important that you slow down the game a bit and stay calm. Dew can also be a factor." Advertisement
Scotland captain Richie Berrington said that in modern cricket, every team is dangerous and no one can be taken lightly. He said, "Every team has players who can win matches single-handedly. It's difficult to pick one team."
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