New Delhi: Islamabad has refused for Pakistan to play against India while accepting to participate at the Men’s ICC T20 World Cup. The two teams were to play against each other on on February 15, 2026.“The government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan grants approval to the Pakistan cricket team to participate in the ICC World T20 2026, however, the Pakistan cricket team shall not take the field in the match scheduled on 15th February 2026 against India,” Pakistan government’s X account said, reported Dawn.The decision came after week-long suspense following Bangladesh’s withdrawal from the tournament, apparently due to the soured relations between the two neighbours over communal clashes. On January 24, Bangladesh was replaced with Scotland. On Monday (January 26), Pakistan Cricket Board chief and interior minister Mohsin Naqvi reportedly met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to discuss the matter.Pakistan was also reportedly considering boycotting the T20 World Cup in an act of solidarity with Bangladesh.Pakistan’s participation in the tournament following the ICC’s decision to replace Bangladesh. According to Dawn, hours before the ICC’s announcement, Naqvi had said that Bangladesh was being treated unfairly and should be allowed to participate in the tournament.The T20 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, is set to begin on February 7.