Efforts are underway to convince Pakistan to play its T20 World Cup match against India, with the final decision expected from Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif. Pakistan may participate under its own conditions once the government gives approval.
According to details, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), after discussions with the International Cricket Council (ICC), has decided to seek further guidance from the government and the Prime Minister before finalizing the match. Once approved, Pakistan could enforce its terms and play the game.
Earlier, under government directives, PCB had decided to participate in the T20 World Cup but not play against India.
Sources said that after four hours of negotiations in Lahore on Sunday night, discussions between PCB, ICC, and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) showed potential for progress. Talks continued late into the night.
PCB has conveyed to the ICC that the government will make the final decision. ICC Vice-Chairman Imran Khwaja assured the ICC board members that Pakistan’s position would be presented clearly. Mushabir Usmani from the Emirates Cricket Board also participated via video link.
The Sri Lankan and Emirates Cricket Boards have requested Pakistan to reconsider its decision. If needed, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi may meet the Prime Minister on Monday for further consultation.
Pakistan is expected to present conditions regarding its annual revenue in discussions with the ICC. The ICC delegation traveled to Pakistan on its own initiative rather than being invited.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi met ICC Vice-Chairman Imran Khwaja at Qaddafi Stadium, where discussions focused on persuading Pakistan to play against India. Meanwhile, Bangladesh Cricket Board President Aminul Islam also visited Lahore and held meetings with Naqvi and Khwaja.
Sources said ICC has advised India to avoid actions against the spirit of the game and not escalate handshake or other disputes. Multiple options have been presented to Pakistan to encourage participation, while Emirates Cricket officials have also requested PCB to reconsider its decision.
For the scheduled match in Colombo on Sunday, the Pakistan government has already refused to play in support of Bangladesh. The ICC mediation team is currently in Pakistan to facilitate discussions with PCB regarding the India match.
