India National Cricket Team vs Pakistan National Cricket Team Match: The India vs Pakistan clash in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 will be played as scheduled on Feb. 15 after the Government of Pakistan reversed its earlier decision to boycott the high-profile fixture. The announcement came late Monday following days of talks involving the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).
Official statement by the Government of Pakistan
"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 the International Cricket Council (ICC), and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). The Government of Pakistan has reviewed the formal requests extended to the PCB by the Bangladesh Cricket Board, as well as the supporting communications from Sri Lanka, the United Arab Emirates, and other member nations. These correspondences sought Pakistan’s leadership in securing a viable solution to recent challenges," the Government of Pakistan said in a statement.
"The Government further noted the statement by BCB President, Mr. Amin ul Islam. The profound gratitude expressed by our brotherly nation is received with great warmth. Pakistan reaffirms that it stands shoulder to shoulder with Bangladesh. This evening, the Prime Minister held a telephone call with H.E. Anura Kumara Dissanayake, President of Sri Lanka. During their warm and friendly conversation, they recalled that Pakistan and Sri Lanka had always stood shoulder to shoulder, especially during challenging times. The Sri Lankan President requested the Prime Minister to accord serious consideration to amicably resolve the current impasse," it added.
"In view of the outcomes achieved in multilateral discussions, as well as the request of friendly countries, the Government of Pakistan hereby 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. Moreover, 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 further added.
Pakistan had earlier announced it would not play the Feb. 15 group-stage match against India in solidarity with Bangladesh, which had refused to travel to India for its matches citing security concerns. Bangladesh were later replaced by Scotland in the tournament.
The match between India and Pakistan is scheduled to be held at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Both teams have already begun their campaigns. Pakistan defeated the Netherlands by three wickets in its opening match, while India beat the United States by 29 runs on Feb. 7.
