Pakistan Cricket Board’s decision to go ahead with the India vs Pakistan clash at the T20 World Cup 2026 has reportedly saved the International Cricket Council (ICC) from suffering a massive financial blow. According to sources, the ICC was facing a potential loss of $174 million (approximately ₹1,470 crore) had Pakistan followed through on its threat to boycott the marquee fixture.

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Following a high-level meeting with the ICC that also involved Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) chairman Aminul Islam, the Pakistan government on Monday directed its players to take the field against India on 15 February in Colombo. The directive brought an end to days of uncertainty surrounding the tournament’s biggest group-stage match.

Pakistan had earlier indicated it would skip the clash as a show of solidarity with Bangladesh, which was replaced by Scotland after refusing to travel to India, citing security concerns.

Broadcasters, sponsors at risk

As reported by The Indian Express, a source claimed that a cumulative loss of $174 million would have been incurred if the match had not gone ahead. The estimated damage included losses to broadcasters, sponsorship commitments and gate revenues.

“The cumulative loss would have been around $174 million, including those related to broadcasters, gate money and other sponsorships,” the source said.

The report added that it took multiple rounds of ICC discussions, formal representations from Sri Lanka Cricket and the UAE Cricket Board, and sustained diplomatic persuasion for Pakistan to finally reverse its stance and agree to play the match in Colombo.

Government directive clears the way

Confirming the decision, the Government of Pakistan said on social media platform X that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had been briefed by PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi on the outcome of the talks with the ICC, following which the directive was issued.

“In view of the outcomes achieved in multilateral discussions, as well as the request of friendly countries, the Government of Pakistan directs the Pakistan National Cricket Team to take the field on 15 February 2026 for its scheduled fixture in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup,” the statement read.

With Pakistan’s participation now confirmed, the India–Pakistan showdown widely regarded as cricket’s most lucrative fixture, will go ahead as scheduled.