Relief swept through cricket circles as Pakistan agreed to face India on February 15 in the 2026 T20 World Cup, ending a boycott standoff. The ICC brokered peace in Lahore talks with PCB and BCB, erasing hurdles that threatened the tournament’s marquee clash.
BCCI Vice President Rajiv Shukla celebrated the news, addressing journalists post-resolution. ‘Delighted by the ICC-led dialogue’s success,’ he stated. ‘The Chairman and delegation’s oversight in Lahore discussions with PCB and BCB yielded a mutually agreed path that honors cricket’s primacy.’
He lavished praise: ‘Big kudos to ICC for ironing out the kinks and prioritizing the game. This is their major victory. Thanks for drawing Pakistan into talks, culminating in Colombo’s India-Pak showdown. T20 World Cup 2026 will shine brightly.’
A true win-win, per Shukla. Bangladesh’s sentiments on security in India were validated; their board escaped sanctions and secured a pre-2031 ICC event slot, fostering happiness all around.
The dispute ignited when Bangladesh refused World Cup participation citing Indian security risks, leading ICC to invite Scotland. Pakistan mirrored the boycott against India. Resolution dawned Sunday at Gaddafi Stadium: ICC’s two-member team conferred with Mohsin Naqvi and Aminul Islam, promising BCB no repercussions and hosting rights. Pakistan’s administration quickly rescinded the ban.
With tensions thawed, anticipation builds for the electrifying rivalry, underscoring cricket’s power to bridge divides under ICC stewardship.