The Pakistan-India T20 World Cup match has been confirmed after the federal government directed the national team to play its scheduled fixture against India on February 15 in Colombo. The decision followed requests from friendly countries and consultations with international cricket authorities.
Prime Minister approved the move after receiving a briefing from Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. The briefing covered outcomes of high-level discussions involving the PCB, the International Cricket Council, and the Bangladesh Cricket Board.
In an official statement, the government said it had reviewed formal requests submitted to the PCB by the BCB. It also considered supporting communications from Sri Lanka, the United Arab Emirates, and other ICC member nations.
Pakistan-India T20 World Cup Match
The government said the decision aimed to protect the spirit of cricket and support the continuity of the global game across all participating nations. It added that Pakistan remains committed to sportsmanship and international cooperation.
The statement said the prime minister and the people of Pakistan extended best wishes to the national team. It expressed confidence that the “Men in Green” would carry national pride and the spirit of sportsmanship as they compete on the global stage.
Earlier, Pakistan had decided not to play against arch-rival India. The move was taken in solidarity with Bangladesh after the latter was excluded from the tournament.
ISLAMABAD, February 9, 2026.
The Honorable Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mr. Shehbaz Sharif has been formally briefed by the Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Mr. Mohsin Naqvi, regarding the outcomes of high-level deliberations held between the PCB, representatives of…
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) February 9, 2026Background to Pakistan’s earlier boycott decision
Bangladesh was removed from the tournament after refusing to travel to India due to security concerns. Following this decision, Pakistan announced it would not play its match against India in protest.
The move triggered intense discussions within international cricket circles. After Pakistan’s announcement, the ICC’s deputy chairman travelled to Lahore on Sunday to meet PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.
The meeting was also attended by Bangladesh Cricket Board President Aminul Islam. Discussions focused on resolving the dispute and ensuring the tournament’s continuity.
ICC confirms no penalty for Bangladesh
Following the talks, the ICC confirmed that no financial, sporting, or administrative penalties would be imposed on the Bangladesh Cricket Board. The ICC said the decision reflected its principles of neutrality and fairness.
In a statement, the ICC said Bangladesh remains a valued Full Member with a proud cricketing history. It reaffirmed BCB’s vital role in the development of the global game.
The ICC also confirmed that Bangladesh retains the right to approach the Dispute Resolution Committee if it chooses to do so. This right remains protected under existing ICC regulations.
Future hosting assurance for Bangladesh
As part of the understanding reached, the ICC agreed that Bangladesh would host an ICC event before the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2031. The hosting will remain subject to standard ICC processes and operational requirements.
The ICC said this reflects confidence in Bangladesh’s ability to host major events. It also underlined the governing body’s commitment to expanding cricket across its member nations.
Read: Pakistan Refuses to Play India in T20 World Cup, Writes to ICC
ICC Chief Executive Sanjog Gupta described Bangladesh’s absence from the T20 World Cup as regrettable. However, he stressed that it does not change the ICC’s long-term commitment to the country.
BCB thanks PCB and requests Pakistan’s participation
Separately, BCB President Aminul Islam publicly requested Pakistan to play the match against India. A day after visiting Pakistan, he thanked PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi for his support.
In a statement, the BCB praised Pakistan’s cricket leadership and fans for demonstrating solidarity and sportsmanship during the dispute. Dhaka, he said, was deeply moved by Pakistan’s efforts.
After discussions and expected outcomes, Islam formally requested that Pakistan play the February 15 match for the benefit of the global cricket ecosystem.
Earlier talks between the PCB, ICC, and BCB lasted more than five hours. Sources said the ICC responded positively to Bangladesh’s demands, with the PCB acting as the main coordinator.
The discussions produced a proposed formula to address BCB grievances. Officials from the ICC and BCB are expected to finalise the next steps after internal approvals.
An India-Pakistan match remains one of cricket’s most lucrative fixtures. Broadcasters, sponsors, and advertisers closely monitor such encounters because of their significant commercial value.
Despite the financial stakes, officials stressed that the decision prioritised unity, fairness, and the integrity of the game.
