Jay Shah Mohsin Naqvi Aminul Islam Bulbul. Image Credits: X
Cricket's fiercest rivalry is set to add a fresh layer as Jay Shah and Mohsin Naqvi are expected to watch the blockbuster India vs Pakistan encounter of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 together at the R. Premadasa Stadium on February 15.
The high-voltage fixture between IND and PAK has already generated massive excitement, but the anticipated presence of the two cricket administrators, Jay Shah and Mohsin Naqvi, has added another significant dimension to the contest.
Mohsin Naqvi to arrive in Colombo for IND vs PAK clash
It is important to mention that Mohsin Naqvi is scheduled to arrive in Colombo today (February 14) ahead of Pakistan's crucial group-stage encounter (as per Rohit Juglan from Revsportz). Sources indicate that he will hold a meeting with the full Pakistan squad before the match.
The interaction is expected to focus not just on performance expectations but also on maintaining discipline and upholding the spirit of the game.
Jay Shah, Mohsin Naqvi set to share stands during IND vs PAK
Fans believe that if Jay Shah and Mohsin Naqvi watch the match together, it will carry symbolic weight. Beyond the boundary ropes, the match is expected to reconnect ICC officials, representatives from the BCCI, and members of the PCB, all at the same venue.
SLC chief Shammi Silva is also likely to attend the encounter, while several dignitaries from other cricket boards have been invited to witness the marquee clash.
BCB chief opts out of IND vs PAK clash
In a significant development, Aminul Islam Bulbul, President of the Bangladesh Cricket Board, has decided not to travel to Colombo despite receiving an official invitation from the ICC.
He returned to Dhaka after completing his overseas commitments, sticking to his pre-arranged schedule as per the Daily Sun.
Reports suggest that his absence may be linked to Bangladesh’s non-participation in the ongoing T20 World Cup.
While the ICC had expressed interest in having the BCB president present for the India vs Pakistan game, Bulbul opted not to attend in person.
High stakes on and off the field
Both India and Pakistan head into this clash with two wins each, setting the stage for a high-stakes battle that could significantly shape the group standings.
Talking about the ‘Men in Blue’, they enter this match after defeating Namibia by 93 runs in their last match. On the other hand, the 'Men in Green' will also enter this match with a win against the USA by 32 runs.
Talking about the points table, India are currently placed at the top of the Group A points table with two wins in two matches at an NRR of +3.050 with four points. On the other hand, Pakistan is in second place in the points table with the same points, at a NRR of +0.932.
Earlier this week, the Pakistan government granted formal approval for its team’s participation in the India match, following diplomatic consultations and discussions aimed at ensuring the smooth conduct of the global tournament.
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