Pakistan Set to Play India in T20 World Cup 2026 After Government Directive

The Government of Pakistan has directed the national cricket team to play against India in the upcoming T20 World Cup fixture on February 15. According to the federal government, the decision to lift the boycott was made after carefully analyzing various factors, including the recent ICC meeting, formal requests from several member boards, and a telephonic conversation with the Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on the matter.

"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 the International Cricket Council (ICC), and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB)," said the government of Pakistan in a statement.

"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.” added the statement.

After reviewing all the discussions, the government directed the Pakistan men’s cricket team to take the field against India on February 15 for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 clash.

"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. " added the statement.

The government further explained that the decision has been taken to safeguard the global cricketing ecosystem which highly depends on the India vs Pakistan marquee clashes in ICC events.

"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.” said the government statement.

"The Prime Minister and the people of Pakistan extend their best wishes to the 'Men in Green.' We remain confident that our team will carry the spirit of sportsmanship and national pride onto the field as they compete for global glory." added the statement.