The talks that helped thaw Pakistan's India match stance

The Shehbaz Sharif government in Pakistan had initially cast uncertainty over the ongoing T20 World Cup by stating its team would not participate in the match against India. On Sunday night, the government reversed its decision for the February 15 contest.

In a statement, the Pakistan Government said: "In view of the outcomes achieved in multilateral discussions, as well as the request of friendly countries, the Government of Pakistan hereby directs the Pakistan National Cricket Team to take the field on February 15, 2026, for its scheduled fixture in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup. Moreover, this decision has been taken with the aim of protecting the spirit of cricket, and to support the continuity of this global sport in all participating nations."

ICC Chair Jay Shah deputed Deputy Chair Imran Khwaja and UAE's Mubashir Usmani to engage with the PCB and its chairman Mohsin Naqvi. Khwaja held discussions in Lahore, while Usmani participated from London, with all proceedings monitored by Shah from India. ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta and PCB CEO Salman Naseer were also part of the extensive meetings.

The Pakistan Government acknowledged the UAE and other nations, stating: "The Government of Pakistan has reviewed the formal requests extended to the PCB by the Bangladesh Cricket Board, as well as the supporting communications from Sri Lanka, the United Arab Emirates, and other member nations. These correspondences sought Pakistan's leadership in securing a viable solution to recent challenges."

It was also confirmed that Prime Minister Sharif held a telephone conversation with Sri Lanka President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. The government noted: "During their warm and friendly conversation, they recalled that Pakistan and Sri Lanka had always stood shoulder to shoulder, especially during challenging times. The Sri Lankan President requested the Prime Minister to accord serious consideration to amicably resolve the current impasse."