Sources say Pakistan has decided to play the T20 World Cup match against India as per schedule, significantly increasing the chances of the much-anticipated clash.
Pakistan has reportedly made a final decision to face India in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 according to the official schedule, sources confirmed on Monday.
According to informed sources, the likelihood of the Pakistan–India match has increased, and the fixture may now go ahead as planned. The decision was taken after diplomatic consultations and requests from multiple cricket boards.
Sources revealed that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif agreed to Pakistan playing the match following a request from the President of Sri Lanka, citing the broader interest of international cricket and regional sportsmanship.
In an official statement, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) said the decision would be in the best interest of the global cricket system. The BCB thanked the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the ICC, and all relevant stakeholders for their role in resolving the situation.
The statement praised PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and the Pakistani players for their professionalism and sportsmanship. BCB President Nazmul Hasan (Mohammad Aminul Islam) described Pakistan’s support as a strong example of brotherly relations, especially after the recent Bangladesh team tour of Pakistan. The development is being seen as a positive step toward strengthening cricket cooperation between Pakistan and Bangladesh.
During a telephone conversation, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake urged Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to allow Pakistan to play the match against India in Sri Lanka.
He recalled Pakistan’s strong support for Sri Lankan cricket during difficult times and said the match would send a positive message for international cricket. The Prime Minister acknowledged Sri Lanka’s continued goodwill, including its recent decision not to cancel a tour of Pakistan, and said the final decision would be taken after consultations.
After Sri Lanka, the UAE Cricket Board also contacted the PCB, requesting a review of Pakistan’s earlier stance on boycotting the February 15 match against India. The Emirati board recommended making a decision in the best interest of cricket.
Sources said discussions are ongoing between the ICC and Bangladesh, with multiple stakeholders urging Pakistan to proceed with the fixture.
Speaking after the PSL Multan Sultans franchise auction in Lahore, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi said,
“Guests should be respected. Pakistan is not afraid of any pressure.”
He clarified that the decision to play or not play against India is a government-level decision. Naqvi added that he conveyed this position during his meeting with the ICC delegation and later decided to brief the Prime Minister directly.
