Pakistan agrees to play India in the T20 World Cup 2026

February 10, 2026: The Pakistan government has reversed its earlier decision and will allow the national cricket team to play against India in the T20 World Cup 2026. The match is scheduled for February 15 at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo. This decision prevented a $174 million loss for the ICC, which included money from broadcasters, ticket sales, and sponsorships.

After the confirmation, Mumbai-Colombo round-trip ticket prices jumped from ₹10,000 to ₹60,000, showing the high demand for fans traveling to watch the match.

High-Level Talks Lead to Pakistan’s Approval

The Pakistan government said in a statement:

"The Sri Lankan President requested our Prime Minister to find a peaceful solution to the current issues. Following discussions and requests from friendly countries, the Pakistan government directs its cricket team to take the field on February 15, 2026, for the scheduled match."

🚨 THE U-TURN IS COMPLETED 🚨

February 1st - Government of Pakistan decided to Boycott the India match.

February 9th - Government of Pakistan decided to play the India match.

ITS OFFICIAL - INDIA vs PAKISTAN IS ON, COLOMBO, FEBRUARY 15th. pic.twitter.com/oB3Qn9DDb5

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) February 9, 2026

The statement also noted that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was briefed by PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi about the discussions with the ICC and Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). Pakistan expressed gratitude to friendly nations and confirmed strong support for Bangladesh, following a call between the Prime Minister and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

Meanwhile, India began their World Cup campaign with a win over the USA and will face Namibia in Delhi next. Pakistan also won their opening match against the Netherlands and will play the USA in their second match.