LAHORE, Feb 9: The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) on Monday urged Pakistan to reverse its decision to boycott the Twenty20 World Cup game against India scheduled for February 15, following meetings with representatives from the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in Lahore.

“We are deeply moved by Pakistan’s efforts to go above and beyond in supporting Bangladesh during this period … I request Pakistan to play the game on 15 February against India for the benefit of the entire cricket ecosystem,” said BCB President Mohammad Aminul Islam in a statement.

Later on Monday, the Pakistan government confirmed that the PCB had agreed to play India in the T20 World Cup match in Sri Lanka, reversing its earlier boycott decision. The boycott had been initially planned due to ongoing geopolitical tensions between the two nations.

“This decision has been taken to protect the spirit of cricket, and to support the continuity of this global sport in all participating nations,” the statement said.

According to the Pakistani authorities, the PCB reviewed formal requests from the BCB, along with supporting communications from the UAE, Sri Lanka, and other cricketing nations, before confirming the match. Pakistan also emphasized that it “stands shoulder to shoulder with Bangladesh,” while acknowledging gratitude expressed by BCB President Aminul Islam.

The resolution was further supported by Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who requested Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to give serious consideration to amicably resolve the impasse.

“We remain confident that the ‘Men in Green’ will carry the spirit of sportsmanship and national pride onto the field as they compete for global glory,” the Pakistani government added.

Meanwhile, the ICC confirmed that Bangladesh will face no sporting, financial, or administrative penalties for previously refusing to play in India. The governing body also announced that Bangladesh will host an ICC event ahead of the 50-over World Cup of 2031, which will be co-hosted by India and Bangladesh.