The highly anticipated T20 World Cup 2026 match between India and Pakistan has been cast into uncertainty, but recent developments suggest the possibility of the match proceeding as scheduled. The game, slated for February 15 in Colombo, faced potential cancellation following an announcement from the Government of Pakistan on February 1 stating that the Pakistan cricket team would not participate in the match against India.

This decision triggered speculation about potential sanctions from the ICC against the PCB. Reports emerged indicating that the PCB, along with Bangladesh Cricket Board chief Aminul Islam Bulbul, were scheduled to meet with ICC officials to discuss a resolution regarding Pakistan's participation.

According to a Cricbuzz report, the PCB had reportedly made demands to play the fixture, including an increased share of ICC revenue and the restoration of bilateral cricket with India.

However, recent reports indicate a potential change in stance from the PCB. Sources within the PCB have suggested a 99% chance of the match taking place. This shift follows warnings from the ICC regarding the severe consequences of a boycott. It has been suggested that "back-channel talks" between the PCB and the ICC have contributed to the softening of the PCB's position.

The initial decision to consider a boycott reportedly stemmed from Pakistan's solidarity with Bangladesh, who were replaced by Scotland after expressing security concerns and declining to travel to India for World Cup matches. The Pakistan government's initial directive to not play against India lacked specific justification, leading the ICC to request the PCB to explain their efforts to resolve the situation.

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) also communicated with the PCB, cautioning that the absence of the high-profile match between India and Pakistan would result in substantial financial losses for SLC and negatively impact the tournament's image.

In other news from the T20 World Cup, both India and Pakistan secured victories in their opening matches. India defeated the USA, while Pakistan overcame the Netherlands in a closely contested match. Pakistan's match against the Netherlands saw them escape an upset, recovering from a collapse to win by 3 wickets. Faheem Ashraf's impressive cameo of 29 runs off 29 balls helped guide Pakistan to victory. India's victory over the USA was powered by a half-century from Suryakumar Yadav.

As of February 9, 2026, the situation remains dynamic. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi is expected to consult with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif before a final decision is made. Despite the initial uncertainty, the India vs. Pakistan T20 World Cup match appears increasingly likely to proceed on February 15.