Former India captain Kapil Dev has expressed serious concern over Pakistan’s reported decision to boycott their high-profile clash against India in the T20 World Cup 2026. Speaking exclusively to NDTV, Kapil Dev did not hold back, stating that such a move could have long-term consequences for Pakistan cricket.
He stressed that international tournaments are meant to bring teams together, and pulling out of marquee games damages not just the image of the sport but also the future of the players involved. According to him, the situation is “not looking bright for Pakistan” if cricketing decisions continue to be influenced by non-sporting factors.
“Killing the Generation”: Impact on Players
Kapil Dev was particularly vocal about how a boycott could affect Pakistan’s current and upcoming cricketers. He pointed out that players train for years to play on the biggest global stages, and denying them such opportunities is deeply unfair. “You are killing the generation,” Kapil said, underlining how players lose valuable exposure, experience, and confidence when kept away from major international contests.
He added that cricketers should not be made to suffer for decisions taken at the administrative level, as their careers are short and every major tournament matters. According to Kapil Dev, sports should always remain above politics, especially in global events where the best talents compete under intense pressure.
Fans, Reputation, and the Bigger Picture
Kapil Dev also addressed the emotional and commercial impact of a potential India-Pakistan no-show. While acknowledging that fans would be disappointed if the match does not happen, he remarked that, over time, people may simply move on.
“Fans will feel bad, but later nobody will remember,” he said, warning that Pakistan risks losing supporters if such decisions become habitual. He further suggested that if the call has come from the Pakistan Cricket Board, it could harm Pakistan’s credibility in world cricket.
Kapil emphasized that cricket thrives on competition and rivalries, and stepping away from iconic matches only weakens a team’s standing on the global stage. In his view, protecting the interests of players and the spirit of the game should always take priority over short-term political considerations.
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