India, Feb. 2 -- Leaders across party lines in India have sharply criticised Pakistan's decision to skip its T20 World Cup clash against India, scheduled for February 15 in Colombo. The tournament, set to be played in India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8, will see Pakistan take part in other matches but not against India.

The decision was reportedly confirmed by the Pakistan government on Sunday evening after a meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi. Since Bangladesh were dropped from the 20-team tournament, the Pakistan Cricket Board has repeatedly threatened to withdraw, alleging that Bangladesh were treated unfairly.

Hours after Pakistan announced it would skip its ...