Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has shared his thoughts on Pakistan’s decision to go ahead with matches against arch-rivals India.
Following the Pakistani government’s announcement to allow a match against India on February 15, Shahid Afridi backed the decision, saying the authorities made the right call in permitting the national team to face their arch-rivals in the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
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Afridi said cricket’s spirit triumphed over politics. He added that the government’s move helped protect the global stability of the game and ensured that cricket continues to unite fans worldwide.
“Cricket won,” Afridi remarked, stressed that sports should rise above political tensions.
The federal government on Saturday granted permission to the Pakistan team to play against India on February 15, 2026, in a scheduled ICC Men’s T20 World Cup match.
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The approval came after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif received a detailed briefing from Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.
According to an official statement, Naqvi informed the prime minister about discussions held between the PCB, the International Cricket Council (ICC), and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).
The government reviewed multiple diplomatic and sporting considerations before making the final decision.
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Officials said several countries, including Sri Lanka and the United Arab Emirates, had urged Pakistan to reconsider its earlier stance of boycotting the match.
These appeals were aimed at preventing disruption to the tournament and maintaining international cricket relations.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also held a telephonic conversation with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
Reason Emerges Why Pakistan Agreed to Play India on February 15
During the call, the Sri Lankan president reportedly requested an amicable resolution to the situation. The Pakistani government reiterated its commitment to regional cooperation and sports diplomacy.
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