T20 World Cup co-hosts Sri Lanka ask Pakistan to reverse their refusal to play their group match against India in Colombo.

A Sri Lankan cricket official says the sport's national governing body has formally asked Pakistan to reconsider its planned boycott of a Twenty20 World Cup game with India next week.

Sri Lanka Cricket warns that a forfeited match could hurt tourism and highlights strong cricketing ties as it appeals to Pakistan to reconsider.

Pakistan's alleged intention to forego the February 15 encounter in Colombo has already had an impact on Sri Lanka's tourism and hospitality industry, with numerous hotel reservations being canceled at various Colombo-based establishments.

Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka lauded batting consultant Vikram Rathour for instilling an aggressive mindset ahead of the T20 World Cup. Despite recent disappointing results, Shanaka expressed confidence in the batters,

Under Operation Sagarbandhu, the Indian Army and Navy sent 10 extra-wide bridges to Sri Lanka to help with reconstruction after Cyclone Ditwah. Indian engineers are assessing damage to restore connectivity and have already built three other bridges.