In a dramatic policy reversal, the Pakistan government has cleared its men’s cricket team to face India in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup on February 15, 2026, at Colombo’s R. Premadasa Stadium. The high-stakes encounter, originally under threat of boycott, now proceeds after intense diplomatic pressure from allies.
The saga began when the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) urged the ICC to relocate its match against India due to geopolitical tensions. The ICC firmly rejected the plea, leading to Scotland replacing Bangladesh in the 2026 tournament lineup. Pakistan initially instructed its team to skip the India game in solidarity with Bangladesh.
However, the ICC’s stern warning against any boycott, coupled with appeals from the BCB and Sri Lankan authorities, prompted Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to reconsider. After reviewing formal requests and messages of support from Sri Lanka, UAE, and others, the government relented.
A official statement highlighted gratitude for Bangladesh’s expressions of brotherhood and a key phone call between Sharif and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. The leaders reaffirmed their nations’ longstanding alliance, especially in tough times, with Dissanayake urging a peaceful resolution.
‘Considering multilateral discussions and requests from friendly nations, the Pakistan government directs the national cricket team to take the field on February 15, 2026,’ the Monday night statement declared. This decision underscores cricket’s role in bridging divides amid regional challenges.
Fans worldwide anticipate the electrifying India-Pakistan rivalry, a fixture that consistently delivers edge-of-the-seat action. As preparations ramp up, both teams will eye glory in the expanded T20 spectacle hosted across Sri Lanka and beyond.