The Pakistan national cricket team has received formal approval from the government to play against India, with the much-anticipated match scheduled for February 15.
According to an official statement, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was formally briefed by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi on the outcomes of high-level discussions held among representatives of the PCB, the International Cricket Council (ICC), and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).
The statement said the Government of Pakistan carefully reviewed the official requests sent by the Bangladesh Cricket Board to the PCB, along with messages received from Sri Lanka, the United Arab Emirates, and other member countries. These communications urged Pakistan to play a constructive role in resolving the challenges currently facing the situation.
It was further noted that the government also took into account the statement of BCB President Aminul Islam. Pakistan warmly welcomed the expression of gratitude from brotherly Bangladesh and reaffirmed its commitment to stand shoulder to shoulder with the country.
According to the statement, the Prime Minister also held a telephone conversation with the President of Sri Lanka earlier this evening. During the cordial and friendly discussion, both leaders recalled that Pakistan and Sri Lanka have always stood by each other, especially during difficult times. The Sri Lankan President requested serious and thoughtful consideration to resolve the matter amicably.
In view of the requests made by friendly countries, the Government of Pakistan has directed that the Pakistan national cricket team will participate in its scheduled match on February 15, 2026, in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.