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A round of intense behind-the-scenes talks involving Sri Lanka, Pakistan and international cricket officials has resolved uncertainty over the marquee India–Pakistan clash at the T20 World Cup, confirming that the match will be played in Colombo on February 15.
Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake confirmed the decision, expressing appreciation to Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for his role in ensuring the fixture went ahead as planned.
Sharing the update on social media, President Dissanayake said he was pleased that the much-anticipated encounter would proceed, adding that Sri Lanka, as a co-host nation, was grateful to the International Cricket Council and all stakeholders for their efforts. He also recalled the support extended by India and Pakistan during the 1996 World Cup, when both teams played in Colombo despite security concerns that led others to stay away.
Meanwhile in Islamabad, the Pakistani government released a detailed statement after extensive consultations between the Pakistan Cricket Board, the ICC and the Bangladesh Cricket Board. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi briefed Prime Minister Sharif on discussions aimed at addressing recent challenges affecting the tournament.
According to the statement, Pakistan had received appeals from the BCB—backed by Sri Lanka, the UAE and other cricketing nations—seeking Islamabad’s leadership in helping find a workable resolution. The government noted the appreciation conveyed by BCB President Amin ul Islam, who described Bangladesh as a close and trusted partner of Pakistan.
Officials said momentum built following a cordial telephone conversation between Prime Minister Sharif and President Dissanayake, during which Sri Lanka formally sought Pakistan’s cooperation to break the deadlock surrounding the fixture.
Following these engagements, the Pakistani government issued a clear instruction for its national side to honour the February 15 match, stating that the decision was taken in the interest of preserving the spirit of cricket and maintaining the smooth progress of the global tournament.
The statement concluded by wishing the Pakistan team well, expressing hope that the players would represent the nation with pride and sportsmanship as they compete on the world stage.
