India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026 match creates security panic in Sri Lanka

India vs Pakistan clash to be played in Colombo [Source: X]

In a significant development, Sri Lanka has decided to tighten security measures for the T20 World Cup 2026, emphasising the high-voltage match between arch-rivals, India and Pakistan. The decision aims to ensure a safe environment for the players as well as the spectators amid the hostile political scenario in the subcontinent. 

It's worth noting that Pakistan will play its T20 World Cup 2026 matches in Sri Lanka. Placed in group A, the Men in Green will collide with the Netherlands and the United States at the Sinhalese Sports Club before taking on India in a highly anticipated clash on February 15. 

Sri Lanka take strict security measures before T20 World Cup 2026

While India enters the tournament as one of the host nations, Pakistan has its matches in Sri Lanka as part of an ICC agreement that allows both teams to choose a neutral venue if either hosts a global cricket tournament. 

Fondly called the mother of all battles, the India vs Pakistan clash has always been a subject of fascination for cricket fans across the globe. These two teams share a fierce rivalry that extends beyond cricketing connections. 

So, this encounter often draws heavy attention from the global cricketing fraternity, as fans don't hesitate to battle logistical hurdles to witness the rivalry live from the stands. 

With a large number of spectators, including those from India and Pakistan, expected to gather for the T20 World Cup, Sri Lanka has decided to take strict security measures for a smooth and hassle-free experience for cricketers as well as supporters. 

"Elite commando units, usually assigned to guard visiting heads of state, will be deployed to protect all participating teams," police and security officials were quoted as saying by Daily Sun. 

"From the time they step out of the airport till they return to their aircraft, they will be protected by armed guards," the report added. 

Which matches will Sri Lanka host in T20 World Cup 2026?

Sri Lanka will host twenty matches in the T20 World Cup 2026. These games have been distributed across three venues in two cities- Colombo and Pallekele. 

The iconic R. Premadasa Stadium will conduct several high-profile encounters, including the riveting clash between India and Pakistan. Meanwhile, the Sinhalese Sports Club will host the group-stage fixtures between Pakistan-Netherlands, Zimbabwe-Oman, Pakistan-USA, Ireland-Oman and Pakistan-Namibia. 

Meanwhile, the group-stage matches between Sri Lanka-Oman, Australia-Sri Lanka, Ireland-Zimbabwe and Australia-Oman will be played at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. The same venue will also host three Super Eight fixtures. 

Pakistan's T20 World Cup 2026 participation still unclear

Although Sri Lanka has tightened the security, anticipating the arrival of a large number of players and spectators, the PCB has yet to confirm Pakistan's participation in the T20 World Cup. According to the PCB, the Pakistan government has decided to stand in solidarity with Bangladesh after the latter's controversial ouster from the tournament. 

Currently, the Men in Green are facing Australia in a three-match T20I series and are expected to take a final call on their T20 World Cup campaign soon.