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Dubai, February 10 :
The International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) held successful talks. Both sides agreed to work together. They also promised to protect the spirit of the game.
The ICC said both parties want constructive engagement. They want unity, neutrality, and cooperation.
ICC Asks Members to Respect ICC Event Commitments
The ICC said all members must follow the participation rules for ICC events. The body also asked teams to support the ongoing T20 World Cup.
The ICC added that every member should take steps to ensure the tournament’s success.
ICC Reassures Support for Bangladesh Cricket
The ICC also spoke about Bangladesh. It said Bangladesh remains one of cricket’s biggest markets. The country has more than 200 million fans.
The ICC said it will support cricket growth in Bangladesh. It also said Bangladesh’s absence from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 should not harm cricket in the long run.
Pakistan Government Directs Team to Play India on Feb 15
Earlier, the Government of Pakistan directed the national team to play on February 15. Pakistan will face defending champions India in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
This decision came after PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi briefed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. He shared the outcomes of talks between PCB, ICC, and BCB.
Pakistan Earlier Considered Boycott
Pakistan earlier decided not to play India. The country linked this decision to solidarity with Bangladesh.
However, Pakistan later reviewed requests from friendly nations. After that, the government changed its stance.
Sri Lanka President Urged a Peaceful Solution
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke to Sri Lanka President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. The Sri Lankan President requested Pakistan to resolve the issue peacefully.
Pakistan considered the request. It also considered the outcomes of multilateral talks.
Bangladesh Board Also Requested Pakistan to Play
Bangladesh Cricket Board President Aminul Islam Bulbul also urged Pakistan to play the match. He requested Pakistan to take the field on February 15.
Pakistan said it received support from several member nations. These included Sri Lanka, UAE, and others.
Bangladesh Replaced by Scotland in 2026
Bangladesh will not play the 2026 T20 World Cup. Scotland replaced them in the tournament.
Bangladesh had requested all matches outside India. The ICC did not accept the demand.
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