Pakistan Upholds Spirit of Cricket, Confirms Participation in T20 World Cup Fixture
Islamabad:(Mudassar Iqbal/Webdesk)- Prime Minister of Pakistan, Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, has been formally briefed by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi on the outcomes of high-level consultations involving the PCB, the International Cricket Council (ICC), and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).
According to official sources, the Government of Pakistan carefully reviewed formal requests submitted by the BCB, along with supporting communications from Sri Lanka, the United Arab Emirates, and other ICC member nations, urging Pakistan to play a leadership role in resolving recent challenges affecting the tournament.
The government also acknowledged the statement issued by BCB President Amin ul Islam, noting with warmth the gratitude expressed by Bangladesh.
ISLAMABAD, February 9, 2026.
The Honorable Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mr. Shehbaz Sharif has been formally briefed by the Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Mr. Mohsin Naqvi, regarding the outcomes of high-level deliberations held between the PCB, representatives of…
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) February 9, 2026
Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to standing shoulder to shoulder with Bangladesh, underscoring the strong bonds between the two nations.
Earlier this evening, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a telephone conversation with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, during which both leaders recalled the long-standing solidarity between Pakistan and Sri Lanka, particularly in difficult times. President Dissanayake requested Pakistan’s serious consideration in helping amicably resolve the prevailing impasse.
In light of the progress made through multilateral discussions and at the request of friendly countries, the Government of Pakistan has directed the Pakistan National Cricket Team to take the field on February 15, 2026, for its scheduled match in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, in accordance with the tournament schedule.
Officials stated that the decision reflects Pakistan’s commitment to upholding the spirit of cricket, promoting unity through sport, and ensuring the continuity of the game across all participating nations.
The Prime Minister and the people of Pakistan extended their best wishes to the “Men in Green,” expressing confidence that the team will compete with sportsmanship, national pride, and determination as they pursue global glory.
ICC and PCB conclude successful talks; jointly commit to the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup
Media release
The dialogue between ICC and PCB took place as part of a broader engagement with both parties recognising the need for constructive dealings and being united, committed and purposeful in their aspirations to serve the best interests of the game with integrity, neutrality and cooperation.
In that prevailing spirit, it was agreed that all members will respect their commitments as per the terms of participation for ICC events and do all that is necessary to ensure that the ongoing edition of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup is a success.
With respect to Bangladesh, the ICC reiterated its continued facilitation of growth in one of cricket’s most vibrant markets, with more than 200 million passionate fans to ensure that the national team’s non-participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 does not have any long-term effects on cricket in the country.
Comments are closed, but trackbacks and pingbacks are open.