The International Cricket Council, Pakistan Cricket Board and Bangladesh Cricket Board have reached a key understanding that not only cleared the way for the India-Pakistan match at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 but also addressed Bangladesh’s concerns and future role in global cricket. Following an open and constructive dialogue, the ICC reaffirmed that Bangladesh remains a valued Full Member and confirmed that no financial, sporting or administrative penalty would be imposed on the BCB despite the team’s absence from the ongoing tournament.

In an official release, the ICC said the discussions covered the T20 World Cup and the broader outlook for cricket in South Asia, with all stakeholders agreeing to a forward-looking alignment reached in good faith. The global body reiterated that Bangladesh’s non-participation in the T20 World Cup would not have any long-term impact on cricket in the country, underlining its commitment to supporting one of the sport’s most vibrant markets with over 200 million fans. It was also confirmed that the BCB retains the right to approach the ICC Dispute Resolution Committee should it choose to do so.

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As part of the understanding, the ICC announced that Bangladesh will host an ICC event prior to the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2031, subject to standard hosting processes and operational requirements. The move was described as a strong vote of confidence in Bangladesh’s hosting capabilities and a reflection of the ICC’s intent to provide meaningful opportunities across its membership to develop the game. ICC Chief Executive Sanjog Gupta said Bangladesh’s absence from the T20 World Cup was regrettable but stressed that it does not alter the ICC’s enduring commitment to the country, adding that Bangladesh remains a priority cricket ecosystem deserving long-term investment and global integration.

The breakthrough came after a high-level meeting in Lahore involving ICC Deputy Chairman Imran Khawaja, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and BCB President Aminul Islam, where Pakistan’s earlier decision to boycott the February 15 match against India in Colombo was discussed. Pakistan had taken that stance in solidarity with Bangladesh after the latter were replaced by Scotland in the tournament, following the ICC’s inability to agree to Bangladesh’s request to play all matches outside India.

Following the outcome of the talks, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was formally briefed by PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and the Government of Pakistan directed its national team to take the field against India as scheduled. This decision drew appreciation from Sri Lanka, the co-host of the tournament, which has played a diplomatic role in easing tensions.

Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake publicly thanked Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for ensuring that the marquee India-Pakistan clash would go ahead. “Thank you Prime Minister @CMShehbaz for ensuring the game we all love goes on. Delighted that the eagerly awaited India and Pakistan match at the ongoing T20 Cricket World Cup in Colombo will proceed as planned,” he wrote on X. He also expressed gratitude to the ICC and all concerned, recalling the solidarity shown by India and Pakistan during the 1996 World Cup when both teams played in Colombo despite security concerns.

An official statement from the Government of Pakistan said the Prime Minister held a telephone conversation with President Dissanayake, during which the Sri Lankan leader requested serious consideration to resolving the impasse amicably. “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,” the statement said.

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