Pakistan to Skip T20 World Cup Clash Against India After Conditional Government Approval

Pakistan will not play India in their scheduled Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 group-stage match at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on February 15, after the Pakistan government granted conditional approval for the national team to participate in the tournament.

Government Grants Conditional Clearance

In an official statement issued on social media platform X, the Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan confirmed that while the Pakistan Cricket Team has been permitted to take part in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, it will not take the field against India on the scheduled date.

“The Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan grants approval to the Pakistan Cricket Team to participate in the ICC World T20 2026, however, the Pakistan Cricket Team shall not take the field in the match scheduled on 15 February 2026 against India,” the statement said.

Likely Boycott in Solidarity With Bangladesh

Although no official reason was cited, sources indicate that Pakistan’s decision is likely a show of solidarity with Bangladesh. Bangladesh were reportedly withdrawn from the tournament after seeking relocation of their matches outside India, citing security concerns, and were subsequently replaced by Scotland in Group C.

Decision Announced Ahead of Schedule

Earlier in the week, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi had met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, following which it was announced that a final decision on Pakistan’s participation would be taken between January 30 and February 2. However, the announcement came a day earlier than expected.

The development poses a fresh challenge for tournament organisers, particularly in terms of revenue and viewership, as the India–Pakistan clash is traditionally the marquee fixture of any ICC event.

Jersey Launch Postponed

Pakistan had also postponed the unveiling of their official jersey for the Men’s T20 World Cup. It was understood that the launch would take place only after clarity emerged on the team’s participation in the tournament.

With the government’s verdict now public, an announcement on the jersey reveal is expected soon.

Pakistan’s Group and Fixtures

Pakistan, champions of the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2009, have been placed in Group A alongside India, Namibia, the Netherlands and the United States. Led by Salman Ali Agha, Pakistan will begin their campaign against the Netherlands on February 7 in Colombo.

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