BCCI issues official word for 1st time after Pakistan takes U-turn to play Vs India

Rajeev Shukla [Source: AFP and X.com]

The ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 saw a major development after Pakistan decided to withdraw its boycott of the much-awaited match against India. Earlier, the PCB had taken a strong stand and announced that the team would not play against India. 

Following Pakistan’s change in decision, BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla praised the ICC for its role in resolving the issue. 

After several discussions and international efforts, the situation changed. As a result, the high-profile India-Pakistan match scheduled for February 15 in Colombo will now take place as planned. 

BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla praises ICC’s role

On Tuesday, Rajeev Shukla openly acknowledged the ICC’s efforts in resolving the issue.

"I would like to thank the ICC chairman (Jay Shah) and its office-bearers on behalf of the BCCI for finding a very good solution. After discussions with the PCB and the BCB, and after listening to all sides, this decision has been taken," Shukla told reporters.

IND vs PAK T20 World Cup boycott ends

Meanwhile, on late Monday evening, the ICC released an official update regarding an “open, constructive and congenial” meeting with PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi and his Bangladesh counterpart. During the meeting, several sensitive issues were discussed.

Although Bangladesh’s absence from the T20 World Cup was described as unfortunate, the ICC clarified that it would not affect Bangladesh’s status in international cricket. 

Importantly, the ICC also decided not to impose any penalty on Bangladesh, which had earlier refused to play in India citing security concerns.

Rajeev Shukla stressed that this decision was crucial for the future of the tournament and the sport as a whole.

"This decision is very important for cricket. Cricket must go on, and the World Cup will now be a big success. This is a big achievement as far as ICC is concerned. Even the Bangladesh Cricket Board has praised the ICC, so it has listened to all sides and arrived at the decision after taking into consideration the interests of everyone.

Why Pakistan changed their decision

Initially, Pakistan’s government had supported the boycott in solidarity with Bangladesh, after Bangladesh was replaced by Scotland in the tournament. However, things began to change when the BCB chief Aminul Islam issued a statement in Dhaka.

He urged Pakistan to play the match for the greater good of cricket. In addition, Sri Lanka also stepped in to ease tensions. Sri Lanka President Anura Kumara Dissanayake personally spoke to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and requested him to allow the team to play.

Following these developments, PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi briefed Sharif about his discussions with the ICC, which eventually led to the government withdrawing its boycott call.

At present, both India and Pakistan have played one match each in the T20 World Cup 2026. India started strong by defeating the USA, while Pakistan registered a narrow victory against the Netherlands.

Looking ahead, India will face Namibia on February 12. Meanwhile, Pakistan is set to play against the USA on February 10.