Pakistan takes u-turn on boycott, set to face India in T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka

Pakistan has reportedly taken a U-turn on its earlier boycott stance and agreed to play against India in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, following a firm stand taken by the International Cricket Council (ICC). Sources indicate that Pakistan has now consented to face India as per the original schedule.

According to the pre-decided fixture, the high-voltage India–Pakistan match will be played on February 15 in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The decision was taken after a crucial meeting of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) held in Lahore.

During the meeting, Pakistan and Bangladesh had placed several demands before the ICC. However, it is learnt that the ICC rejected Pakistan’s key demands, forcing Islamabad to soften its position. Pakistan had also sought a bilateral series against India, but the ICC made it clear that organising bilateral series does not fall under its jurisdiction.

Meanwhile, after Bangladesh was excluded from hosting the 2026 T20 World Cup, the ICC has agreed to provide compensation. As part of this, Bangladesh may be awarded the hosting rights for the Under-19 World Cup and the Women’s Cricket World Cup.

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Pakistan also raised the issue of increasing its share in ICC revenue. The ICC has said that this demand will be reviewed, but no commitment has been made so far.