The India-Pakistan T20 World Cup match will proceed as planned after Pakistan’s government withdrew its boycott following interventions by Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, resolving a standoff that threatened the tournament.
The match is scheduled to take place in Colombo on February 15.
“In view of the outcomes achieved in multilateral discussions, as well as the request of friendly countries, the Government of Pakistan herein directs the Pakistan National Cricket Team to take the field on February 15, 2026, for its scheduled fixture in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup,” the Pakistan government stated in a press release.
It was clear that the country would withdraw the call after Bangladesh Cricket Board chief Aminul Islam issued a statement urging Pakistan to take the field for the greater good of the game.
“…this decision has been taken with the aim of protecting the spirit of cricket, and to support the continuity of this global sport in all participating nations,” the statement from Pakistan government added.
On Monday, the ICC announced that Bangladesh would face no sporting, financial, or administrative penalties for refusing to play in India and revealed that the country will host an ICC event ahead of the 50-over World Cup in 2031, which will be co-hosted by India and Bangladesh.
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also received a call from Sri Lanka President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who urged him to withdraw the boycott call.
“The Sri Lankan President requested the Prime Minister to accord serious consideration to amicably resolve the current impasse.”
