Pakistan CEO watches T20 World Cup 2026 - (Source: X.com)
The 10th edition of the T20 World Cup 2026 is finally underway. After weeks of speculation over Pakistan’s participation amid the feud with ICC and Jay Shah, the Salman Agha-led side are finally in Colombo, locking horns against the Netherlands for the opening match of the tournament.
Unlike the previous two tournaments, Pakistan are heading towards a win in their first match of the tournament. Talking about the ongoing fixture, the Men in Green, bowling first, restricted the Netherlands to just 147 runs on the board.
In reply, Pakistan lost two wickets at regular intervals, but Sahibzada Farhan’s fifty put the Men in Green in a driver’s position. The fans turned up in big numbers to watch their teams in action. There was also a special man in attendance as ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta flew down to Colombo to watch the Pakistan vs Netherlands match.
Sanjog Gupta shows up amid India vs PAK uncertainty
Notably, the last few weeks have been tough for cricket fans because of the tussle between the ICC and the PCB. It all began with Bangladesh Cricket Board having issue with playing in India for T20 World Cup 2026. The BCB cited security issues and sought support from Pakistan to put pressure from ICC.
However, the Jay Shah-led council did not approve of the demand, and after multiple discussions, they decided to replace Bangladesh with Scotland. Eventually, Pakistan faced the pressure to also exit the World Cup.
Mohsin Naqvi held multiple meetings with the Pakistan PM, and it was decided that Pakistan will play the event but boycott India match on February 15.
However, in the latest events, Mohsin Naqvi is all set to meet Shehbaz Sharif again as Sri Lanka cricket has written to the PCB to reconsider their boycott against India. Notably, in November 2025, SLC had helped Pakistan and now they are seeking a favour in return.
Jay Shah likely to show up for the India vs USA match in Mumbai
Notably, the opening ceremony of the T20 World Cup 2026 will take place ahead of the India vs USA match in Mumbai. Several dignitaries are set to attend the game, but ICC chief Jay Shah is set to attend the game.
Not just Jay Shah, but former India captain Rohit Sharma, who is also the brand ambassador of the T20 World Cup will also be present at the Wankhede Stadium. It is likely that ICC chief and CEO's visit to India and Sri Lanka could also mean a dialogue between the two boards and ICC.
At present, Pakistan PM publically announced that the Men in Green will boycott their match against India on February 15, but still it is expected that they might make a U-Turn on their earlier stance.
Talking about the ongoing match, Pakistan have opened their account and registered a three-wicket win.
