Pakistan has decided to play its T20 World Cup match against India after accepting requests from the International Cricket Council (ICC), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and other stakeholders, sources said on Monday.
According to sources, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) withdrew its earlier decision to boycott the fixture following successful negotiations with the ICC, which agreed to all conditions presented by Pakistan.
The development paves the way for the highly anticipated Pakistan-India clash to be played on February 15, allowing cricket fans to witness one of the sport’s biggest rivalries.
Sources said Pakistan decided, in line with its tradition of hospitality and tolerance, to resolve the issue through dialogue rather than confrontation. An official announcement is expected shortly.
The ICC had formally requested Pakistan to reconsider its position, urging the PCB to ensure the smooth conduct of the tournament. After the acceptance of Pakistan’s demands, the board agreed to restore the fixture.
The breakthrough also followed diplomatic efforts by Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who contacted Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and requested that Pakistan play the match in Sri Lanka.
According to sources, the Sri Lankan president highlighted Pakistan’s longstanding friendship with Sri Lanka and recalled Islamabad’s support during difficult times, including Pakistan’s decision to continue playing in Sri Lanka despite security challenges.
PM Shehbaz welcomed the sentiments and acknowledged Sri Lanka’s consistent support for Pakistan. He noted that the Sri Lankan team had recently toured Pakistan and did not cancel its visit despite an unpleasant incident.
The prime minister had earlier informed the Sri Lankan president that consultations on the matter were ongoing and that he would be updated once a final decision was taken.
