PAKISTAN HAVE called off a threatened boycott of their ICC T20 World Cup Group C big ticket game against India, scheduled for Sunday, 15 February.
The climbdown follows successful talks the International Cricket Council held in Lahore with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to end the impasse.
Earlier, the government of Pakistan had indicated that the national team’s participation in the tournament could be limited to select fixtures, avoiding a clash with India, traditionally the most watched and commercially significant match for both the ICC and its broadcast partners.
In a statement, the Pakistan government said: “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.
In an official statement, the ICC said, “The dialogue between ICC and PCB took place as part of a broader engagement with both parties recognising the need for constructive dealings and being united, committed and purposeful in their aspirations to serve the best interests of the game with integrity, neutrality and cooperation.”
“In that prevailing spirit, it was agreed that all members will respect their commitments as per the terms of participation for ICC events and do all that is necessary to ensure that the ongoing edition of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup is a success,” the statement added.
Meanwhile, the ICC said it would not impose any sporting, financial or administrative penalty on Bangladesh for their refusal to play in India. They also announced that Bangladesh would host an ICC event prior to the 50-over World Cup of 2031, which is set to be co-hosted by India and Bangladesh.
Bangladesh were removed from this year’s T20 World Cup after they refused to play their fixtures in India, citing political tensions and security concerns; with Scotland added as their last-minute replacement.
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.
“Our focus continues to be on working closely with key stakeholders including BCB to ensure the sport grows sustainably in the country and that future opportunities for its players and fans are strengthened.
“Bangladesh remains a priority cricket ecosystem deserving of long-term investment in its development, competitiveness and global integration, and is not defined by short-term disruptions.”
