Pakistan will boycott its high-profile clash against India in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled for February 15, after the decision was approved by the Government of Pakistan.

In a statement issued from the government’s official X account, Islamabad confirmed that the Pakistan cricket team has received permission to travel to Sri Lanka for the tournament. However, he clarified that the team “will not be taking the field” against India, without specifying the reasons for the move.

The announcement comes after weeks of uncertainty, with Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi repeatedly threatening a boycott in solidarity with Bangladesh following the latter’s withdrawal from the tournament. Naqvi had earlier indicated that a final call would be made on January 30 or February 2.

The controversy grew after the ICC officially replaced Bangladesh with Scotland in the 20-team tournament. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) had refused to travel to India, citing security concerns, and requested that its matches be moved to Sri Lanka. After an independent security assessment, the ICC found “no credible or verifiable threat” and refused to amend the timetable.

With Bangladesh out, Scotland were drawn in Group C alongside England, West Indies, Nepal and Italy. The Scottish side were ranked as the next highest ranked T20I team and are currently ranked No.14 in the world, ahead of several teams already in the tournament.

Bangladesh were initially scheduled to play group matches in Kolkata and Mumbai. His withdrawal marks the first time the Men’s T20 World Cup will be held without Bangladesh, who had participated in every edition since the tournament began in 2007.

The ICC reiterated that changes to venues or equipment were not feasible, noting that the calendar had been published in November 2025 and that the event was too close to the start for major changes.