Pakistan to play T20 World Cup match against India on Feb 15

Islamabad (Web Desk): Pakistan on Monday confirmed that the national cricket team would play the scheduled ICC Men’s T20 World Cup match against India on February 15, following requests from friendly nations.

The decision was made by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif after a briefing from Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi on discussions between the PCB, ICC, and Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).

“The government of Pakistan has reviewed the formal requests extended to the PCB by the BCB, as well as the supporting communications from Sri Lanka, the United Arab Emirates, and other member nations,” the government said in a statement. It added the move aims to “protect the spirit of cricket” and ensure the sport continues smoothly across participating countries. The statement also wished the national team well, saying: “We remain confident that our team will carry the spirit of sportsmanship and national pride onto the field as they compete for global glory.”

ISLAMABAD, February 9, 2026.

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…

— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) February 9, 2026

Pakistan had initially decided not to play against India in solidarity with Bangladesh, who withdrew from the tournament over security concerns. Following the announcement, ICC Deputy Chairman Imran Khwaja visited Lahore to meet with PCB officials, with BCB President Aminul Islam also in attendance.

Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake thanked Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, saying: “Delighted that the eagerly awaited India and Pakistan match at the ongoing T20 Cricket World Cup in Colombo will proceed as planned. As co-host of the tournament, Sri Lanka thanks the ICC and all concerned for their efforts.” He recalled the 1996 World Cup, noting, “Sri Lanka hasn’t forgotten the solidarity shown by both India and Pakistan during the 1996 World Cup, when they played in Colombo at a time when others refrained due to security concerns.”

Thank you Prime Minister @CMShehbaz for ensuring the game we all love goes on. Delighted that the eagerly awaited India and Pakistan match at the ongoing T20 Cricket World Cup in Colombo will proceed as planned.

As co-host of the tournament, Sri Lanka thanks the @ICC and all…

— Anura Kumara Dissanayake (@anuradisanayake) February 9, 2026

Meanwhile, the ICC confirmed Bangladesh would face no penalties for missing the tournament and reaffirmed its position as a key cricketing nation.

“The ICC’s approach is guided by its principles of neutrality and fairness and reflects the shared objective of facilitative support rather than punishment,” it said. Bangladesh will also host an ICC event ahead of the 2031 World Cup, under usual proedures.

The International Cricket Council, Pakistan Cricket Board and Bangladesh Cricket Board have concluded an open, constructive and congenial dialogue.

Media Release: https://t.co/gLDIjB3JOp

— ICC (@ICC) February 9, 2026

ICC Chief Executive Sanjog Gupta said, “Bangladesh’s absence from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup is regrettable, but it does not alter the ICC’s enduring commitment to Bangladesh as a core cricketing nation.” He added that the ICC remains focused on strengthening cricket in Bangladesh, ensuring opportunities for players and fans are preserved.

The BCB also thanked Pakistan, with President Aminul Islam saying: “The BCB wishes to express its profound and heartfelt gratitude to PCB Chairman Mohsin Raza Naqvi, his Board and the cricket fans of Pakistan. Throughout this period, the PCB has demonstrated exemplary sportsmanship and solidarity.” Following his visit, he requested Pakistan to play against India, stating it would benefit the entire cricket ecosystem.

Earlier, talks in Lahore between the PCB, ICC, and BCB lasted over five hours, producing a framework to address Bangladesh’s grievances, with the PCB serving as the main coordinator.

Tensions had flared after Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman was dropped from the IPL at the direction of the BCCI, prompting Bangladesh to seek relocation of matches, which the ICC rejected. Scotland replaced Bangladesh in the tournament, but Pakistan initially threatened to boycott its match against India in protest.

It is pertinent to mention that India–Pakistan matches remain hugely lucrative, with estimated commercial value around $500 million (INR45,000 crore), including broadcast, sponsorship, advertising, and ticket revenues. Advertising slots during the match command between INR25–40 lakh for a 10-second spot, far higher than even India’s knockout games against other top teams. The immediate financial impact is expected to be on the official broadcaster, with ad revenue from this single match projected at around INR300 crore.