New Delhi: The much-anticipated India vs Pakistan clash in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 appears to be back on track, with reports confirming that the International Cricket Council (ICC) has resumed discussions with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to ensure the marquee fixture goes ahead as scheduled.
The high-voltage match, slated for February 15 in Colombo, was earlier thrown into uncertainty after Pakistan announced a boycott in solidarity with Bangladesh following its removal from the tournament. The decision triggered widespread concern, as the India–Pakistan encounter is widely regarded as the biggest revenue driver of ICC events.
According to reports, including one by The Indian Express, the PCB softened its stance after the ICC conveyed the possibility of significant financial damages if Pakistan failed to honour the fixture. The ICC reportedly clarified that the situation cited by PCB does not qualify under the ‘force majeure’ clause, which the board had invoked to justify its boycott.
An ICC official was quoted as saying that the governing body is engaging with the PCB “in a structured manner to explore possible resolutions,” signalling a shift from confrontation to dialogue.
Earlier, India’s T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav had categorically stated that India is fully prepared to face Pakistan and has never backed away from the contest.
Speaking during the pre-tournament captains’ media interaction in Mumbai on February 5, Suryakumar questioned whether the match would go ahead following reports of a directive from the Pakistan government to its cricket board not to play India.
“Our mindset is pretty clear. We have not said no to playing Pakistan. They have,” Suryakumar said.
“The ICC has given the fixture. BCCI and the government have decided on neutral venues. Our flight is booked and we are going to Colombo.”
The India–Pakistan clash is scheduled to be India’s third league match of the tournament. India opened their World Cup campaign with a 29-run win over the USA on February 7, and will next face Namibia in Delhi before travelling to Colombo.
The issue has also drawn concern from Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), which warned the PCB of severe financial losses if the fixture is cancelled, citing ticket sales, tourism, and overall economic impact. In response, the PCB has indicated it will consult the Pakistan government again and explore possible options, including a reversal of its earlier stance.
With negotiations ongoing and financial stakes high, all signs now point towards the India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup showdown going ahead as planned, much to the relief of fans and stakeholders worldwide.
Source: NDTV Sports
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