SPORTS

Pakistan to Play T20 World Cup Match Against India on February 15

Pakistan will face India in the ICC T20 World Cup on Feb 15 after PM Shehbaz Sharif approves the match, following requests from Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.
2026-02-09
Pakistan to Play T20 World Cup Match Against India on February 15

Pakistan has decided to play its ICC T20 World Cup match against India on February 15 as scheduled, following diplomatic and cricket board consultations.

Sources confirmed that both the Pakistan and Indian teams will now take the field for the highly anticipated clash. The decision comes after a telephone conversation between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Sri Lankan President, who requested Pakistan’s participation.

According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the Sri Lankan President emphasized Pakistan’s longstanding support for Sri Lankan cricket during periods of terrorism, and highlighted the importance of mutual cooperation. Prime Minister Sharif responded positively, noting Sri Lanka’s support for Pakistan cricket, including their recent tours despite security challenges.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) had also requested Pakistan to play the match, thanking the PCB for its support during the scheduling issues.

Earlier, Pakistan had announced it would not play against India as a show of solidarity with Bangladesh, which had requested its World Cup matches be shifted to Sri Lanka due to security concerns. The ICC rejected this request and included Scotland instead of Bangladesh in the event, prompting Pakistan’s initial refusal.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi had previously hinted at flexibility, stating, “When a guest comes home, many things are forgotten,” reflecting the spirit of international cricket diplomacy in resolving the dispute.

The ICC had faced potential financial losses if the high-profile Pakistan-India match had been canceled, making the resolution important for both sporting and financial reasons.