New Delhi, Feb 5 (NationPress) The unilateral decision by the Pakistan government to prevent their cricket team from competing against India in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup scheduled for February 15 in Colombo has left Sri Lanka Cricket in a precarious financial situation. Reports indicate that the co-hosts are now addressing their concerns with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) regarding the anticipated financial losses.

Sri Lanka Cricket has officially communicated with the PCB, emphasizing the significant financial impact following the cancellation of the match against India. This comes after all necessary arrangements for the match had been finalized.

“There have been numerous hotel cancellations in Colombo, which is adversely affecting the local tourism industry. The letter also reminds PCB of Sri Lanka's historical support during challenging times and calls for reconsideration,” stated the SLC in its correspondence.

In response, a former Pakistani cricketer has downplayed SLC's concerns, asserting that the matter is now in the hands of the International Cricket Council (ICC).

“What difference does it make if Sri Lanka Cricket reaches out to PCB? The issue lies with the ICC, and the PCB has received directives from the Pakistani government not to proceed with the match against India in Colombo. SLC's request to PCB to reconsider the February 15 match due to financial implications will not change anything,” the former player conveyed during a conversation with IANS.

The potential cancellation of the India-Pakistan clash poses a significant risk to the tourism sector in Sri Lanka. Consequently, SLC has decided to escalate the matter to the ICC.

IANS previously reported on the potential repercussions for tourism in Sri Lanka if the match is forfeited on February 15. The rivalry between India and Pakistan is traditionally one of the most awaited encounters in any global tournament, typically drawing an influx of fans, media representatives, and sponsors.

The sporting ramifications are considerable, but the immediate economic consequences may be felt most in Colombo. The India-Pakistan match is a major event that attracts thousands of cricket enthusiasts, media, and sponsorships.

Hotels in Colombo had reportedly experienced high occupancy rates due to early bookings for this marquee event. With the match now uncertain, a wave of cancellations is anticipated.

Airlines may also experience challenges as special travel arrangements made for this high-profile match are reconsidered. Tour operators and local businesses that had prepared for an influx of visitors now face the risk of financial losses. Industry experts caution that tourism, a vital sector in Sri Lanka's recovering economy, could suffer significantly if the situation remains unresolved.

The match's cancellation may lead to fans withdrawing their plans to visit Sri Lanka, further affecting local businesses that have invested heavily in preparations for the expected influx of cricket tourists.

In response, Sri Lanka Cricket is proactively taking steps, starting with its communication to PCB, in hopes of sharing the financial burden.