India vs Pakistan matches have become rare spectacles, with the two rivals now only meeting during ICC tournaments due to suspended bilateral cricket.
The last Asia Cup, held in the UAE, gave fans three fiery contests between the arch-rivals, all won by India. The tournament ended in controversy when India refused to receive the trophy from ACC President Mohsin Naqvi.
Despite such off-field drama, cricket fans are eagerly anticipating the next showdown. India and Pakistan are set to meet at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
The event is scheduled between February 7 and March 8, with group-stage matches likely to place the two sides against each other around mid-February. India and Pakistan have consistently been drawn into the same groups.
READ: Mohsin Naqvi lashes back at Indian media over fake apology reports
So far, 15 nations have secured qualification for the tournament, including debutants Italy. The final five slots will be decided through regional qualifiers in Africa and Asia-East Pacific regions.
The tournament will feature 20 teams split into four groups of five, with the top two from each group progressing to the Super Eight, and the best four advance to the semi-finals.
Matches will be staged at five venues in India and two in Sri Lanka, with the final expected in Ahmedabad or Colombo. India will enter the tournament as defending champion, having defeated South Africa in the 2024 final.
The two boards have agreed not to play in each other’s countries, so neutral venues are confirmed for their encounters.
With India hosting a packed 2026 schedule, including the Women’s Premier League, New Zealand series, and IPL, the India-Pakistan clash remains the most awaited event of the year.
