By The South Asia Times

ISLAMABAD - Pakistan on Monday confirmed it will take the field against India in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, overturning its earlier decision to withdraw from the match.

The reversal comes after high-level discussions involving the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the International Cricket Council (ICC), and regional partners including Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and the UAE.

 

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was briefed by PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi on the outcomes of these consultations, which sought to resolve scheduling disputes and maintain the continuity of the tournament. The government emphasized that the decision aligns with Pakistan’s commitment to protecting the spirit of cricket and promoting international sportsmanship.

 

The move was also supported diplomatically, with the Prime Minister speaking to Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who urged Pakistan to consider an amicable solution to avoid disruption of the World Cup schedule. Bangladesh Cricket Board President Amin ul Islam expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s cooperation, underscoring the close cricketing and diplomatic ties in the region.

 

“The Government of Pakistan stands shoulder to shoulder with the cricketing community and all participating nations,” the official statement said. “We are confident the national team will uphold sportsmanship and national pride on the global stage.”

 

The announcement ends uncertainty for fans in South Asia and globally, setting the stage for one of the tournament’s most high-profile encounters between cricketing rivals Pakistan and India.