Off-Field Controversies Overshadow Cricket, Says Pakistan Captain Salman Ali Agha Ahead of T20 World Cup Opener

Web Desk February 6, 2026

Pakistan T20 captain Salman Ali Agha has expressed concern over off-field controversies taking center stage instead of cricket as his team prepares to begin its ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign against the Netherlands in Colombo on Saturday.

Speaking ahead of the opener, Agha said that constant focus on political and administrative issues surrounding Pakistan cricket is “not a good thing” for players, especially during a global tournament. He stressed that the team has come to the World Cup as sportsmen and wants discussions to remain limited to cricket and on-field performance.

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Over the past few months, Pakistan cricket has been surrounded by controversy, including issues during the Asia Cup and the Pakistan government’s decision to boycott the group-stage clash against India in the ongoing T20 World Cup. These matters have attracted significant media attention, often overshadowing the team’s preparations and performances.

Addressing questions on the issue during a media interaction, Agha said that even in press conferences, players are being asked more about non-cricket matters than the game itself. He added that the team and individuals are consciously trying not to let such distractions affect them and are avoiding unnecessary focus on external issues for the betterment of their cricket.

Meanwhile, discussions are ongoing between the International Cricket Council and the Pakistan Cricket Board to find a solution regarding the high-profile Pakistan versus India group-stage match. According to reports, back-channel talks are being held to resolve the situation after Pakistan decided to skip the February 15 match in Colombo on government instructions.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif explained that the decision was taken to show solidarity with Bangladesh, who were excluded from the tournament after declining to play in India, one of the co-hosts along with Sri Lanka. While the PCB has not issued a detailed public statement on the boycott, the ICC has urged all parties to work towards a mutually acceptable solution that safeguards the interests of all stakeholders.

Senior ICC and regional cricket officials, including ICC deputy chair Imran Khwaja and Emirates Cricket Board secretary Mubashir Usmani, have been involved in discussions with PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi and PSL chief Salman Naseer. These talks reportedly began even before the boycott was officially announced, following concerns raised by the PCB regarding Pakistan’s participation under government directives.

Earlier, there were discussions around possible sanctions, but the PCB has maintained that its position is based on principles rather than financial implications. Mohsin Naqvi had previously criticised the ICC for excluding Bangladesh, calling it unfair and reflective of double standards.

Shifting focus back to cricket, Salman Ali Agha confirmed that he will continue batting at number three, a position where he has enjoyed success in recent months. He said that since things are going well at number three, there is no need to make any changes. In nine matches at that position, Agha has scored 297 runs at an average of 37.12 and an impressive strike rate of 167.79, including two half-centuries.

On team selection, the Pakistan skipper said that the management will go with the best possible playing combination, regardless of seniority. He made it clear that if any senior player does not fit into the best XI for a particular match, the team will not hesitate to make changes. While acknowledging the long-term contributions of players like Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam, Agha reiterated that decisions will always be made in the best interest of the team.

Pakistan will look to put the distractions behind them and focus on a strong start to their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign when they face the Netherlands in Colombo.

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