LAHORE: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday welcomed Pakistan’s decision to go ahead with its Group A match against India at the T20 World Cup on February 15.
Pakistan ended a week-long standoff late Monday by withdrawing its decision to boycott the match in Colombo. The move followed talks involving the International Cricket Council (ICC), the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).
ICC and BCB officials had flown to Lahore for discussions with the PCB. The talks focused on resolving outstanding concerns surrounding the high-profile fixture.
The PCB lifted its boycott after the ICC accepted its conditions, clearing the way for the match to proceed as scheduled. The ICC promised that not action will be taken against BCB and Bangladesh to get an ICC event in 2028 to 2031 window.
BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla described the outcome as a major success. He thanked the ICC for playing a key role in persuading Pakistan to agree to the match.
Speaking to reporters in New Delhi, Shukla said the decision reflected a positive and encouraging development for international cricket. He said the talks prioritized the interests of the game.
Shukla said ICC representatives, under the supervision of the ICC chairman, held detailed discussions with PCB and BCB officials in Lahore. He said the aim was to resolve disputes through dialogue and mutual understanding.
He called the agreement a significant achievement for the ICC, saying the body addressed all concerns and helped bring Pakistan back to the negotiating table.
Shukla confirmed that the February 15 match in Colombo would now take place as planned. He said the decision was welcome news for cricket fans worldwide.
He added that concerns raised by the Bangladesh Cricket Board were also largely resolved during the talks. He said the BCB appreciated the ICC’s efforts.
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Shukla said the decision benefited all stakeholders and ensured the smooth conduct of the World Cup. He said cricket ultimately emerged as the biggest winner.
Pakistan’s government has also granted permission for the national team to play against India on February 15.
