ISLAMABAD: The Government of Pakistan on Monday night announced that the national cricket team will participate in the scheduled ICC Men’s T20 World Cup match against India, putting an end to weeks of uncertainty surrounding the high-profile fixture.
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In an official statement, the government said it had granted formal permission for the Pakistani team to play the match against India on February 15 in Sri Lanka. While confirming the decision, the government also expressed solidarity with Bangladesh, describing it as a brotherly nation.
The announcement confirms that Pakistan will take part in the T20 World Cup fixture as originally scheduled, following extensive consultations at multiple levels. The decision comes after deliberations involving the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the International Cricket Council (ICC), and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).
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, 2026
According to the statement, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi formally briefed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on the outcomes of these high-level discussions. The government reviewed formal requests made to the PCB by the Bangladesh Cricket Board, along with supporting communications from Sri Lanka, the United Arab Emirates, and other ICC member nations.
These communications urged Pakistan to play a leading role in reaching a workable solution to recent challenges affecting the tournament schedule and participation. After considering the requests and broader implications, the government approved the team’s participation in the match.
The statement also referred to comments made by BCB President Amin ul Islam, acknowledging the gratitude expressed by Bangladesh. Pakistan said it received these sentiments warmly and reaffirmed that it stands “shoulder to shoulder” with Bangladesh.
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The government reiterated its commitment to international sporting norms and regional cooperation, while emphasizing the importance of cricket as a unifying force. With the decision now confirmed, preparations for the much-anticipated Pakistan-India clash are expected to proceed as planned under the ICC’s arrangements for the tournament.