ISLAMABAD: Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday cleared the country's cricket team to play India in the T20 World Cup on Feb. 15 in Colombo, ending a week-long standoff.
"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 team to take the field against India," Sharif posted on X.
The government decided to play against India to protect the spirit of cricket and support the continuity of this global sport in all participating nations, the government said in a statement.
According to a statement issued by the Pakistan government, “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.”
“The Government further noted the statement by BCB President, Mr. Amin ul Islam. The profound gratitude expressed by our brotherly nation is received with great warmth. Pakistan reaffirms that it stands shoulder to shoulder with Bangladesh,” it added.
The statement said the prime minister held a phone call with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, where both leaders highlighted the long history of mutual support between the two countries, especially during difficult periods. The Sri Lankan president urged Pakistan to carefully consider resolving the ongoing situation through dialogue.
It further stated that following progress in multilateral talks and requests from friendly nations, the Government of Pakistan directed the national cricket team to play its scheduled ICC Men’s T20 World Cup match on Feb. 15.
On Feb. 1, the government announced on its official X account that although the Pakistan cricket team would participate in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, it would not play its match against India on Feb. 15.
The decision followed the ICC's expulsion of Bangladesh from the event after the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) refused to send its team to co-host India due to security concerns. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the boycott was in support of Bangladesh's position against playing in India.
The Bangladesh Cricket Board “requested” Pakistan to play against India in the ICC T20 World Cup match on Feb. 15 for the benefit of the “cricket ecosystem.”
In a statement, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) extended its appreciation to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the International Cricket Council (ICC), and all involved for their positive efforts to overcome recent challenges.
The BCB expressed 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,” the statement added.
BCB President Md Aminul Islam said, “We are deeply moved by Pakistan’s efforts to go above and beyond in supporting Bangladesh during this period. Long may our brotherhood flourish.”
