Sri Lanka has played a decisive diplomatic role in clearing the path for the much-anticipated India–Pakistan T20 World Cup match to be held in Colombo, bringing an end to days of uncertainty surrounding the fixture. A late-night telephone conversation between Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on February 9 proved to be the turning point in convincing Pakistan to take the field against India.
Cricket diplomacy unlocks stalemate
The breakthrough came after Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs proactively reached out to Pakistani authorities through diplomatic channels in Colombo and Islamabad. Following swift exchanges, a nearly 30-minute call between the two leaders was arranged. Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath described the effort as “cricket diplomacy,” underscoring how dialogue helped defuse tensions around the India–Pakistan T20 World Cup match.
During the conversation, President Dissanayake reportedly urged Prime Minister Sharif to consider an amicable resolution, recalling the long-standing ties between the two nations. The leaders also reflected on historic moments of solidarity, particularly during the 1996 World Cup when India and Pakistan played in Colombo amid security concerns.
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Regional support strengthens decision
In addition to Sri Lanka’s intervention, Bangladesh also played a behind-the-scenes role by formally approaching the Pakistan Cricket Board. According to a statement shared by the Government of Pakistan, multiple cricketing nations, including Sri Lanka and the UAE, supported efforts to resolve the impasse surrounding the India–Pakistan T20 World Cup match.
The statement highlighted a “warm and friendly” exchange between the leaders, reinforcing mutual respect and shared cricketing history. These coordinated diplomatic efforts helped Pakistan review its earlier stance and ultimately agree to participate in the high-profile India–Pakistan T20 World Cup match, much to the relief of fans and tournament organizers.
ICC confirms fixture will proceed
The International Cricket Council confirmed late on February 9 that the India–Pakistan T20 World Cup match will go ahead as scheduled on February 15 in Colombo. The ICC noted that discussions with the PCB were conducted constructively, with all parties prioritizing the integrity and unity of the sport.
President Dissanayake later expressed satisfaction on social media, thanking the ICC and stakeholders for ensuring the India–Pakistan T20 World Cup match proceeds as planned. As anticipation builds, the fixture now stands as both a sporting spectacle and a reminder of how diplomacy can keep cricket’s biggest rivalry alive.
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