ISLAMABAD — Pakistan will go head-to-head with arch-rivals India on February 15 in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, bringing an end to a week of uncertainty over the much-anticipated clash. The national team has now been cleared to play after discussions at both diplomatic and cricketing levels.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reversed the earlier decision which was to boycott the game following a briefing from Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. During the meeting he discussed about the talks with the ICC and the Bangladesh Cricket Board and highlighted the outcomes of recent discussions.
Why the Pakistan vs India T20 World Cup Match Was in Doubt
The BCB President Mohammad Aminul Islam expressed gratitude to Pakistan for its support, noting that Islamabad “stands shoulder to shoulder with Bangladesh.” Requests from Bangladesh along with support from Sri Lanka, the UAE, and other cricketing nations, also played a role in the decision
On Sunday Mr. Prime Minister spoke with the Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and the two leaders recalled the long history of solidarity between the two countries. The conversation focused on finding an amicable resolution to the standoff.
The government said the move aims to maintain the integrity of cricket and ensure that the World Cup continues smoothly for all teams. Fans and officials alike are hoping the “Men in Green” will display both skill and sportsmanship when they take the field.
Pakistan had originally planned to boycott the match after the ICC replaced Bangladesh with Scotland, following Bangladesh’s refusal to travel to India. While the BCCI holds considerable influence within the ICC due to its financial and administrative power, the ICC clarified that no penalties would be imposed on Bangladesh. The board also confirmed that Bangladesh will host an ICC event ahead of the 2031 50-over World Cup, co-hosted by India.
Aminul Islam praised Pakistan’s approach, saying, “We are deeply moved by Pakistan’s support. I hope they play on February 15 against India for the benefit of the entire cricket community.”
Source: TRT world