BCB president requests Pakistan to play India match on Feb 15

Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) president Aminul Islam Bulbul has requested Pakistan to play their T20 World Cup group match against India on February 15 in Colombo.

“Following my short visit to Pakistan yesterday and given the forthcoming outcomes of our discussions, I request Pakistan to play the game on 15 February against India for the benefit of the entire cricket ecosystem,” Bulbul was quoted as saying in a BCB press release on Friday night.

The release noted that the BCB extended its sincere appreciation to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the International Cricket Council (ICC) and all parties involved for their positive roles in addressing recent challenges.

In particular, the BCB expressed its gratitude to PCB chairman Mohsin Raza Naqvi, his Board and the cricket fans of Pakistan for their exemplary sportsmanship and solidarity.

“We are deeply moved by Pakistan’s efforts to go above and beyond in supporting Bangladesh during this period. Long may our brotherhood flourish,” said Bulbul.

An ICC delegation, represented by deputy chair Imran Khwaja, was joined by Bulbul during discussions.

The dispute began when Bangladesh, citing security concerns, refused to travel to India and were later replaced by Scotland. Pakistan subsequently declared it would boycott the India fixture in solidarity with Bangladesh, prompting urgent backchannel talks.