Pakistan is reportedly set to face India in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 as per the original schedule, with the high-profile match expected to take place on February 15 at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
According to reports, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake personally contacted Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and urged Pakistan to reconsider its decision to boycott the India fixture in the tournament.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif acknowledged the request and subsequently authorized Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi to take the final call on the matter.
Just minutes before these developments emerged, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) issued a public statement thanking the PCB for its consistent support and solidarity during recent challenges.
“The Bangladesh Cricket Board extends its sincere appreciation to the Pakistan Cricket Board, the International Cricket Council and all stakeholders for their constructive efforts in addressing recent issues,” the statement said.
The BCB specifically expressed gratitude to PCB Chairman Mohsin Raza Naqvi, the board, and cricket fans in Pakistan, praising their display of sportsmanship and unity.
“We are deeply touched by Pakistan’s willingness to go beyond expectations in supporting Bangladesh during this period. Long may this brotherhood continue,” BCB President Aminul Islam said.
Referring to his recent visit to Pakistan, Islam added that, in light of ongoing discussions and anticipated outcomes, he had requested Pakistan to play the ICC T20 World Cup match against India on February 15 for the benefit of the wider cricket ecosystem.
The latest breakthrough follows a key meeting in Lahore involving a delegation from the International Cricket Council (ICC), led by its Deputy Chairman Imran Khawaja, along with BCB President Aminul Islam.
Sources said the talks lasted more than five hours, with all parties working to reach a mutually acceptable resolution. The ICC reportedly acknowledged Bangladesh’s concerns and assured stakeholders that a structured framework would be developed to address outstanding issues.
