Pakistan Confirm India Clash on Feb 15 After Boycott U-Turn
Pakistan will face India in their scheduled Men’s T20 World Cup match on February 15 in Colombo, ending weeks of uncertainty caused by political tensions in South Asia. The Pakistan government lifted its planned boycott after talks involving the ICC and regional boards, clearing the way for one of cricket’s most lucrative fixtures.
The decision followed Bangladesh’s earlier withdrawal from the tournament, a move that had raised fears of major commercial losses for world cricket. ICC insiders estimate that India-Pakistan clashes account for around 10% of the governing body’s $250m broadcast value for 2024–27.
“In view of outcomes achieved in multilateral discussions, Pakistan will fulfil the fixture,” a government statement said. An ICC spokesperson added that the match was “vital for the stability of the global calendar,” while a former international player told local media the decision was “a relief for boards who depend heavily on ICC revenue.”
Bangladesh will face no sanctions for withdrawing and remains set to host a future ICC event before 2031.