Pakistan will play against arch-rivals India in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially confirmed, putting to rest speculation surrounding one of the tournament’s most anticipated fixtures.
According to the ICC, the India vs Pakistan match will take place on February 15 in Colombo, as per the confirmed tournament schedule. The global cricket body said Pakistan will participate in all its scheduled matches in the World Cup, including the high-profile encounter against India.
The confirmation comes after questions were raised about Pakistan’s participation in the India fixture, leading to uncertainty around the future of the match. The ICC said it held discussions with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to ensure clarity and reaffirmed that all teams are expected to honour their commitments under tournament regulations.
“The Pakistan men’s team will play all matches allocated to them in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, including the fixture against India,” the ICC said in a statement.
The India–Pakistan clash is considered one of the biggest draws in world cricket, attracting massive global viewership and commercial interest. Its inclusion is seen as crucial to the tournament’s competitive and commercial success.
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is being co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, with matches scheduled across multiple venues. Colombo will host several key games, including the India–Pakistan encounter.
Pakistan have already begun their campaign in the tournament and will continue to play their group matches as scheduled. The ICC did not indicate any changes to the group structure or match venues following the confirmation.
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