The ICC has released a statement confirming Pakistan’s participation in all scheduled matches of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 – including the match against India on February 15 in Colombo.
The statement released by ICC said: “The dialogue between ICC and PCB took place in the context of broader cooperation, with both parties recognizing the need for constructive engagement and being united, committed and single-minded in their endeavors to serve the best interests of the game with integrity, neutrality and cooperation.”
“It is in this prevailing spirit that all members will abide by their obligations under the ICC Event Participation Rules and do all necessary to ensure that the ongoing edition of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup is a success.
“With regard to Bangladesh, the ICC reiterated its continued support for growth in one of cricket’s most dynamic markets with more than 200 million passionate fans to ensure that the national team’s non-participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 does not have a long-term impact on cricket in the country.”
The ICC had earlier noted the Pakistan government’s statement on its decision to limit the team’s participation in the tournament to selected matches.
Ahead of the much-awaited match against India, Pakistan will play their second match of the tournament against the USA on February 10 in Colombo.
They secured a three-wicket win against the Netherlands in the opening match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
Monday’s announcement also followed a meeting between the ICC, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).
BCB and ICC subsequently confirmed that Bangladesh will not face any penalties for its absence from the tournament and will have the opportunity to host an ICC event before the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2031, subject to standard ICC hosting procedures and requirements.
