Asif Iqbal Naik
Jammu, February 10, 2026: Amid heightened India–Pakistan cricket tensions following recent controversies, including the Asia Cup fallout and diplomatic sensitivities surrounding sporting engagements, the Government of Pakistan on Monday announced that the Pakistan National Cricket Team will take the field on February 15, 2026, for its scheduled fixture in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, after extensive diplomatic outreach and multilateral consultations involving key cricketing nations.
According to an official statement issued by the Government of Pakistan, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif was formally briefed by the Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Mr. Mohsin Naqvi, on the outcomes of high-level deliberations held between the PCB, representatives of the International Cricket Council (ICC), and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).
The government reviewed formal requests extended to the PCB by the Bangladesh Cricket Board, along with supporting communications from Sri Lanka, the United Arab Emirates, and other friendly member nations. These correspondences sought Pakistan’s leadership in securing a viable and amicable solution to the challenges that had recently emerged in connection with the tournament.
The statement further noted remarks by BCB President Mr. Amin ul Islam, expressing profound gratitude towards Pakistan. The government said the appreciation conveyed by the brotherly nation was received with great warmth, reiterating that Pakistan stands shoulder to shoulder with Bangladesh.
In a related diplomatic engagement, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also held a telephone conversation with Sri Lankan President H.E. Anura Kumara Dissanayake. During the warm and friendly exchange, both leaders recalled that Pakistan and Sri Lanka have consistently stood shoulder to shoulder, particularly during challenging times. The Sri Lankan President urged the Prime Minister to accord serious consideration to resolving the current impasse through amicable means.
The announcement comes in the backdrop of the recent Asia Cup episode, which saw the absence of customary handshakes between Indian and Pakistani players, triggering widespread debate over sportsmanship and protocol. The controversy had intensified speculation about strained cricketing ties and the possible spillover of political disagreements into international sporting events.
Taking into account the outcomes achieved through multilateral discussions, as well as the requests of friendly countries, the Government of Pakistan directed the Pakistan National Cricket Team to participate in its scheduled ICC Men’s T20 World Cup match on February 15, 2026.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to sports diplomacy, regional cooperation, and constructive engagement, emphasizing Pakistan’s resolve to uphold the spirit of international cricket, mutual respect, and fair play.
