After a period of diplomatic friction between the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) over Pakistan’s threatened boycott of its ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 match against India, there are indications that ICC chair Jay Shah and PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi could soon be seen together at the high‑profile clash scheduled for February 15 in Colombo. The potential joint appearance comes as tensions appear to have eased following multilateral discussions involving the ICC, PCB and other cricket boards.

The impasse arose earlier in February after Pakistan’s initial decision to withdraw from the marquee India‑Pakistan fixture, which drew global attention and raised questions about the match’s viability. However, following sustained engagement — including dialogues facilitated by the ICC and support from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) — the PCB reversed its stance and confirmed its team would play as scheduled, ending the boycott threat just days before the game.

According to sources familiar with planning, both Shah and Naqvi are among several senior cricket administrators expected to attend the match in Colombo. Other dignitaries likely to be present include BCB president Aminul Islam Bulbul and Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) chief Shammi Silva, underscoring a broader effort among member boards to project unity and cooperation ahead of and during the tournament.

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The public appearance of the ICC’s and PCB’s top officials together — potentially shaking hands on the sidelines of one of cricket’s most watched fixtures — is significant. It would signal a formal thaw in relations following a period of strained communications that at times threatened to overshadow the bigger sporting spectacle. The objective, according to insiders, is to “give an impression that the rift within the house is over now,” allowing focus to shift back to the game itself and maintaining confidence among fans worldwide.

Sri Lankan cricket officials have welcomed the expected attendance by Shah, Naqvi and other board presidents, emphasising the positive impact of having cricket’s leadership present for the event. The tournament hosts also noted that strong diplomatic and administrative representation could bolster local enthusiasm and contribute to both tourism and the broader success of the T20 World Cup in the region.

While specifics of any discussions or agreements between Shah and Naqvi at the match have not been disclosed, their shared presence would be closely watched by cricket devotees and political observers alike — particularly given the historic significance and intense rivalry of India‑Pakistan encounters in international cricket.

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