Three Days of Intense Diplomacy Led to Breakthrough in 2026 T20 World Cup

COLOMBO (News 1st); Pakistan has reversed its earlier decision to withdraw from the scheduled 2026 T20 World Cup match against India, choosing instead to participate following Colombo’s request and mediation efforts.

The announcement was made formally communicated by Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, retired Major General Faheem Ul Aziz, during his farewell meeting with Sri Lanka’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Vijitha Herath, at the Ministry premises on Tuesday morning.

According to the High Commissioner, the eventual decision to abandon disagreements and go ahead with the match was reached after three days of intensive, high‑level diplomatic engagement between the two nations.

Herath further acknowledged that numerous uncertainties surrounding the T20 World Cup schedule were resolved thanks to his own continuous diplomatic efforts, which the High Commissioner praised as relentless and impactful.

Reflecting on his tenure in Colombo, High Commissioner Faheem Ul Aziz described his period of service in Sri Lanka as “extremely pleasant and deeply fulfilling,” commending the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for its unwavering support.

He added that one of the highlights of his mission was witnessing two free, fair, and exemplary elections held in Sri Lanka in 2024, a development he said brought him personal satisfaction and confidence in the country’s democratic process.