- By Gurmeet Batra
- Mon, 09 Feb 2026 11:59 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup: After many days of a standoff, Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif and his government have ordered the national men’s team to take the field against traditional rival India in the 2026 T20 World Cup match in Colombo on February 15.
This U-turn follows requests from Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif consulting stakeholders before making the announcement.
The decision was officially announced through the Government of Pakistan's social media handles, confirming the national team's participation in the T20 World Cup match against India.
"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," the tweet wrote.
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"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," it added.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi briefed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on the outcomes of high-level talks between Pakistan, ICC, and the Bangladesh Cricket Board.
"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 statement concluded.
Bangladesh have been dismissed from the tournament for refusing to play in India, citing security concerns.
BCB chief Islam stated in Dhaka, expressing his gratitude towards Pakistan for backing his country, but requested that the team show up for the high-profile game for the greater good of the sport.