Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved Pakistan’s participation in the highly anticipated match against India, with the government announcing that the national team will take the field on February 15.
The government of Pakistan confirmed that the prime minister has allowed the Pakistan national cricket team to play against India. The match is scheduled for February 15, 2026, during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
Officials said the decision was made after careful consideration of diplomatic, sporting, and regional factors.
According to the official announcement, Mohsin Naqvi, the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board, formally briefed the prime minister on the outcomes of high-level deliberations. These discussions involved the International Cricket Council, the Bangladesh Cricket Board, and other stakeholders regarding recent challenges facing the tournament.
Bangladesh’s request reviewed
The government said it reviewed the formal request submitted by the Bangladesh Cricket Board in detail. It also took note of supportive communications from Sri Lanka, the United Arab Emirates, and other member nations, all of whom urged Pakistan to help find a constructive solution.
Officials noted that these countries sought Pakistan’s leadership to ease the impasse and protect the broader interests of international cricket.
The government also acknowledged the statement by BCB President Aminul Islam, expressing gratitude toward Pakistan. Islamabad said the appreciation from its “brotherly nation” was received warmly.
Pakistan reiterated that it stands shoulder to shoulder with Bangladesh and supports the long-term stability of cricket in the region.
Protect global cricket
The government said that, in view of the outcomes of multilateral discussions and the requests of friendly countries, it has directed the Pakistan national team to play its scheduled World Cup fixture on February 15.
Officials emphasized that the decision was taken to protect the spirit of the game and to ensure the continuity of cricket at the global level.
Also Read: Bangladesh Cricket Board urges Pakistan to play India match
The prime minister and the people of Pakistan extended their best wishes to the “Men in Green.” The government expressed confidence that the team will carry national pride and sportsmanship onto the field as they compete for global glory.
Bangladesh’s demands
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) expressed gratitude to the Pakistan Cricket Board for what it described as exemplary sportsmanship during difficult times.
BCB officials also thanked PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and Pakistani fans, saying Bangladeshi supporters had shown deep emotions and appreciation for Pakistan’s support of cricketing values.
Pakistan–India match vital for cricket
The BCB said the Pakistan–India match is not just a bilateral fixture but an event of major importance for the global cricket ecosystem. According to the board, such high-profile matches play a key role in sustaining international cricket financially and competitively.
'Ready for good news'
Mohsin Naqvi later held an informal conversation with journalists, during which he said that a decision on whether Pakistan will play against India will be made soon.
He added that they are always ready to receive good news. Mohsin Naqvi confirmed that Bangladesh has formally requested Pakistan to play the match, noting that it is important for Bangladesh that their affairs are resolved, which is why they are making the request.
Clarifying Pakistan’s position, he said that Pakistan did not merely take a stand for Bangladesh but spoke on their behalf to support their case.
Also Read: Sri Lanka urges Pakistan to play World Cup match against India
Earlier, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake also requested the Pakistan cricket team consider playing their match against India in Sri Lanka, emphasizing the historic cricketing ties and mutual support between the two nations.
During a cordial telephonic talk with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the Sri Lankan president recalled Pakistan’s consistent support for Sri Lanka during periods of terrorism, including continuing to host Sri Lankan cricket matches in challenging times.
He also highlighted the recent gesture of the Sri Lankan team not cancelling their tour of Pakistan, calling it a mark of enduring friendship.
