The India vs Pakistan match at the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup will go ahead as scheduled, the ICC confirmed late on February 9.
ICC confirm Pakistan's participation in India game
Following the conclusion of an "open, constructive, and congenial dialogue" between the ICC, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), the ICC first announced that Bangladesh would not face sanctions for refusing to travel to India for the 2026 T20 World Cup. They then followed this with a statement confirming the much-discussed India vs Pakistan match would indeed go on as scheduled, on February 15.
“The dialogue between ICC and PCB took place as part of a broader engagement with both parties recognising the need for constructive dealings and being united, committed and purposeful in their aspirations to serve the best interests of the game with integrity, neutrality and cooperation,” an ICC statement said.
“In that prevailing spirit, it was agreed that all members will respect their commitments as per the terms of participation for ICC events and do all that is necessary to ensure that the ongoing edition of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup is a success.”
Pakistan government withdraws boycott
The Pakistan government, which had originally announced the team's boycott of the India game, released a statement on Monday withdrawing the boycott citing outcomes of the talks with the ICC and requests from several member nations as the reasons.
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"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 Pakistan government’s statement read.
"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 resolving the current impasse.
"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."
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