India-Pakistan T20 World Cup match confirmed after Pakistan drops boycott

The India-Pakistan match at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup will be played as scheduled after the Pakistan government withdrew its boycott call following diplomatic engagement by Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

The high-profile fixture against India is scheduled to take place in Colombo on February 15.

Pakistan’s government confirmed the decision in an official press release, bringing an end to the uncertainty that had cast a shadow over the ongoing tournament.

“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 statement said.

The withdrawal of the boycott appeared imminent after Bangladesh Cricket Board president Aminul Islam urged Pakistan to participate in the match, citing the broader interests of the sport.

“…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 Pakistan government statement added.

The development also followed direct engagement at the leadership level. Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif received a phone call from Sri Lanka President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who pressed for a resolution.

“The Sri Lankan President requested the Prime Minister to accord serious consideration to amicably resolve the current impasse.”