The Government of Pakistan has allowed the national cricket team to take part in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, clearing the way for Pakistan’s participation in the global event.
The decision was shared via the official X handle of the Pakistan government.
“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 15th February 2026 against India,” the statement read.
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However, the approval comes with a key condition. The Pakistan Cricket Team will not play the match scheduled against India on 15 February 2026.
The decision was taken after consultations at the government level, keeping broader considerations in mind.
The move is aimed at applying financial pressure on the International Cricket Council (ICC).
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi had last week criticized the ICC for “double standards” and alleged that it was influenced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
READ: Final decision on World Cup participation expected on Friday or Monday: Mohsin Naqvi
The announcement followed a crucial meeting between Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Naqvi. Naqvi had previously met the PM last month to discuss Pakistan’s participation and had promised that a final decision would be made by January 30 or February 2.
Pakistan reconsidered its participation after the ICC replaced Bangladesh with Scotland.
Bangladesh had refused to tour India following the release of pacer Mustafizur Rahman from the IPL’s Kolkata Knight Riders, reportedly on BCCI instructions.
Negotiations between the boards failed, and the ICC maintained the tournament schedule, giving BCB a 24-hour ultimatum.
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The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to be held in India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8.
