Kapil Dev calls out Pakistan for 'killing generation' after T20 World Cup boycott against India

Former Indian captain Kapil Dev has voiced strong opposition to any potential boycott involving Pakistan’s participation in major international tournaments, warning that such decisions could damage the sport and unfairly impact emerging players.

India and Pakistan are slated to face off on February 15 in Colombo, but the Pakistani government has denied taking the field for the match.

Speaking on the issue, Kapil Dev emphasized that if players themselves choose not to participate, they should openly take responsibility. However, he argued that when cricket boards impose restrictions, it reflects poorly on a nation’s sporting reputation and undermines the spirit of the game.

“It is not looking bright for Pakistan. You are killing the generation,” Kapil Dev remarked, highlighting Pakistan’s long history of producing world-class cricketing talent. He added that preventing young players from competing on the global stage would not only hurt their careers but also harm cricket as a whole.

“If the decision was taken by the players, they can come out and say. However, if the board says that you will not play, the reputation of the country comes down,” Kapil Dev said.

Kapil also dismissed the idea that India or fans would suffer in the long run if the match does not take place. “The emotions and spectators will be impacted. But, in the long run, no one will miss them. People will not think about it for a long time and they will ultimately move on,” he concluded.

His comments come amid renewed debate over political and administrative influence in international cricket, reigniting discussions on keeping the sport separate from non-cricketing disputes. Kapil Dev’s stance reinforces calls from former players and fans alike to prioritize fair competition, player development, and the integrity of the game.