Pakistan will play its scheduled ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 match against India on February 15 in Colombo, the government said on Monday, clearing the way for one of cricket’s most anticipated fixtures.

The announcement came after an International Cricket Council (ICC) delegation visited Pakistan over the weekend and held meetings with Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi on the national team’s participation in the match.

The decision was also taken hours after Sri Lanka formally urged Pakistan to play the fixture.

In a post on X, the government said PCB Chairman Naqvi formally briefed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on the outcomes of high-level deliberations involving the PCB, the ICC and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).

“The government of Pakistan has reviewed the formal requests extended to the PCB by the BCB, as well as the supporting communications from Sri Lanka, the United Arab Emirates, and other member nations. These correspondences sought Pakistan’s leadership in securing a viable solution to recent challenges,” it said.

According to the statement, the government also acknowledged remarks by BCB President Md Aminul Islam, who expressed gratitude to Pakistan, and reaffirmed that Pakistan stands shoulder to shoulder with Bangladesh.

PM Shehbaz also held a telephone conversation on Monday evening with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

The two leaders spoke in a warm and friendly atmosphere, recalling their history of mutual support during challenging times. The Sri Lankan president requested serious consideration to amicably resolve the prevailing impasse.

Taking into account the outcomes of multilateral talks and the requests of friendly countries, the government directed the Pakistan national cricket team to take the field on February 15 for its scheduled World Cup fixture.

The statement said the decision was taken to protect the spirit of cricket and ensure continuity of the global sport across all participating nations. The prime minister and the people of Pakistan extended their best wishes to the “Men in Green,” expressing confidence that the team would compete with passion, sportsmanship and national pride.

Earlier, the Bangladesh Cricket Board had formally requested Pakistan to play the match against India, calling it essential for the benefit of the global cricket ecosystem.

In a separate statement, the BCB thanked PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, the PCB and Pakistani cricket fans for their support during a difficult situation.

BCB President Aminul Islam described Pakistan’s backing as a reflection of brotherly relations and said the decision would serve the broader interests of international cricket.

Prior to the official announcement, PCB Chairman Naqvi had indicated that talks with the ICC and the BCB were ongoing and that several friendly countries were also in contact, saying clarity on the matter would emerge soon.