- ICC clears Pakistan’s participation in all fixtures, including blockbuster India clash
Cricket’s biggest rivalry is officially locked in as the ICC confirmed that Pakistan will participate in all scheduled matches of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, including the much-anticipated showdown against India on 15 February in Colombo.
The governing body said discussions with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) were held in a “constructive and cooperative spirit,” with all parties agreeing to honour their commitments to protect the integrity and success of the tournament.
Pakistan have already built early momentum in the competition, securing a three-wicket win over the Netherlands in their opener and preparing to face the USA on 10 February, also in Colombo, before the high-voltage India encounter.
The ICC announcement followed a joint meeting with the PCB and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), where it was confirmed that Bangladesh will not face penalties for their absence, while the ICC pledged continued support for the country’s cricket growth and future hosting opportunities.
With participation now settled and political uncertainties eased, attention shifts fully to the field, where the India-Pakistan clash promises a packed Colombo, global viewership, and another chapter in cricket’s fiercest rivalry.
