Former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Khan Afridi said on Monday that he supports the Pakistan government’s decision not to play against India in the scheduled World Cup 2026 match on February 15.

In a message posted on X, formerly Twitter, Afridi urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to show leadership at a critical moment.

He said that politics closes doors, while cricket has the capacity to open them. Afridi termed it as unfortunate that Pakistan will not play against India.

The former captain said he stands with his government’s decision and added that this is the time for the ICC to demonstrate leadership.

Afridi said neutrality should be proven through decisions rather than statements.

Also Read: ‘Not ideal situation for cricket fans,’ Hafeez on Pakistan’s boycott of India match

Earlier, former Pakistan ace all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez has reacted to the Pakistan’s decision of not playing against India in their scheduled match of the T20 World Cup 2026 on February 15.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the former T20I captain recalled the Indian gesture of refusing the handshakes with the Pakistan players during the Asia Cup. “Started no handshake from India. In surprised response Pakistan withdrawal from most important game of the ICC tournament,” he said.

Also Read: Tharoor condemns politicisation of cricket amid T20 World Cup Row

Separately, senior Indian lawmaker Shashi Tharoor has strongly criticised the growing politicisation of cricket, calling it “disgraceful” and warning that rising tensions risk damaging a sport meant to unite people.

Speaking on the controversy surrounding Pakistan’s reported move to boycott its match against India in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, Shashi Tharoor said Bangladeshi cricketer Mustafizur Rahman should not have been deprived of his Indian Premier League contract in Kolkata.