Political remarks intensify around India–Pakistan World Cup match
February 15, 2026: Congress MP Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa on Sunday described Pakistan as an “enemy” ahead of India’s group-stage clash against the Pakistan national cricket team in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Randhawa, who hails from Punjab’s border district of Gurdaspur, said Pakistan should be treated accordingly, alleging that those living near the border understand the impact of what he termed a “proxy war” against India.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut added to the controversy by alleging that India–Pakistan cricket matches generate massive betting proceeds. At a press conference in Mumbai, he referred to the fixture as a “Jay Shah vs Pakistan match,” targeting Jay Shah, who currently heads the International Cricket Council. Shah has not responded to the remarks. The political reactions come amid renewed debate over sporting ties between the two countries.
The row follows Pakistan’s decision to reverse its earlier boycott of the match, which had been announced in solidarity with Bangladesh after venue-related concerns were raised with the ICC. Meanwhile, Mohsin Naqvi, chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board and a minister in the Shehbaz Sharif government, is expected to attend the match in Colombo and hold discussions with ICC officials on the sidelines.