Late on February 09, the Pakistan Government changed its stance and allowed their cricket team to feature in the T20 World Cup 2026 clash against India, scheduled to take place on February 15 at the R. Premadasa Cricket Stadium in Colombo. It prevented a $174 million revenue loss for the International Cricket Council (ICC), as the reports have claimed.

The cumulative loss would have been the combination of broadcasters, gate money, and the other sponsorships. It was confirmed that India would play Pakistan next Sunday, and minutes after that, the prices for the Mumbai-Colombo-Mumbai round trip were increased to 10000 to 60000.

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"The Sri Lankan President requested the Prime Minister to accord serious consideration to amicably resolve the current impasses. In view of the outcomes achieved in discussions, as well as the request of friendly countries, the Government of Pakistan hereby directs the Pakistan National cricket team to take the field on February 15, 2026, for its scheduled fixtures.” The government of Pakistan expressed in a statement.

ICC saves $174 million after India vs Pakistan T20 WC 2026 clash gets green signal

India have started their T20 WC campaign with a victory against the United States of America and will face Namibia in Delhi for the second encounter, while Pakistan faces the USA on their second clash after earning a nervy victory against the Netherlands in Colombo.

“The Government further noted the statement by BCB President, Mr. Amin ul Islam. The profound gratitude expressed by our brotherly nation is received with great warmth. Pakistan reaffirms that it stands shoulder to shoulder with Bangladesh. This evening, the Prime Minister held a telephone call with H.E. Anura Kumara Dissanayake, President of Sri Lanka.” The Pakistan government explained.

“The Honorable Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mr. Shehbaz Sharif, has been formally briefed by the Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Mr. Mohsin Naqvi, regarding the outcomes of high-level deliberations held between the PCB, representatives of the International Cricket Council (ICC), and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).” The statement added.