ICC confirms Pakistan-India match in T20 World Cup 2026

KABUL (Pajhwok): The International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed that Pakistan will participate in all of their scheduled matches at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, including the much-anticipated clash against India on February 15 in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

In a statement, the ICC said discussions with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) were held as part of broader engagement with all stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of constructive dialogue and collective responsibility.

“The dialogue between the 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,” the statement read.

“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 ICC had earlier taken note of a statement from the Government of Pakistan indicating restrictions on the team’s participation to select matches. However, the latest confirmation puts to rest any uncertainty surrounding Pakistan’s involvement in the tournament.

Ahead of their high-profile encounter against India, Pakistan will play their second group match against the United States on February 10, also in Colombo.

The announcement followed a meeting involving the ICC, PCB, and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). Subsequently, the ICC and BCB confirmed that Bangladesh will not face any penalties for its absence from the tournament.

“With respect to Bangladesh, the ICC reiterated its continued facilitation of growth in one of cricket’s most vibrant markets, with more than 200 million passionate fans, to ensure that the national team’s non-participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 does not have any long-term effects on cricket in the country,” the ICC stated.

Additionally, Bangladesh has been given the opportunity to host an ICC event ahead of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2031, subject to standard ICC hosting processes and requirements.

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