The India versus Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026 fixture will go ahead as scheduled after the Government of Pakistan made a dramatic U-turn on its proposed boycott following discussions with International Cricket Council (ICC) representatives, directing the national team to take the field against India on February 15 in Colombo.

The change in stance came a day after a meeting in Lahore, involving officials from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), and the ICC.

The decision was confirmed through social media by Government of Pakistan's official handle. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the government's move to withdraw the boycott was influenced by requests from "friendly countries," including Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and the UAE, as well as the "outcomes achieved" through multilateral discussions.

"In view of the outcomes achieved in multilateral discussions, as well as the request of friendly countries, the Government of Pakistan hereby directs the Pakistan National Cricket Team to take the field on February 15, 2026, for its scheduled fixture in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup," the statement read.

"Moreover, this decision has been taken with the aim of protecting the spirit of cricket, and to support the continuity of this global sport in all participating nations," it added.

"The Honorable Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mr. Shehbaz Sharif has been formally briefed by the Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Mr. Mohsin Naqvi, regarding 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 of Pakistan has reviewed the formal requests extended to the PCB by the Bangladesh Cricket Board, as well as the supporting communications from Sri Lanka, the United Arab Emirates, and other member nations. These correspondences sought Pakistan's leadership in securing a viable solution to recent challenges."

Pakistan had earlier announced its boycott of the T20 World Cup clash against India in solidarity with Bangladesh after the latter refused to travel to India for their matches, citing security concerns.

While the ICC replaced Bangladesh with Scotland in the 20-team tournament, the PCB has now backtracked from its boycott stand.

The apex body also released a statement confirming the participation of Pakistan in all their scheduled T20 World Cup 2026 matches, including the high-profile encounter against India.

“The dialogue between ICC and PCB took place as part of a broader engagement with both parties recognising the need for constructive dealings and being united, committed and purposeful in their aspirations to serve the best interests of the game with integrity, neutrality and cooperation.

“In that prevailing spirit, it was agreed that all members will respect their commitments as per the terms of participation for ICC events and do all that is necessary to ensure that the ongoing edition of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup is a success.

“With respect to Bangladesh, the ICC reiterated its continued facilitation of growth in one of cricket’s most vibrant 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 any long-term effects on cricket in the country,” the statement released by ICC said.

The Jay Shah-led body further clarified that Bangladesh will not face any sanctions for their absence from the tournament and will have the opportunity to host an ICC event ahead of the Men’s Cricket World Cup 2031, subject to standard hosting processes and requirements.