India vs. Pakistan Match May Be Affected by Rain

The big cricket match between India and Pakistan on February 15, 2026, could be stopped by rain. The ICC is working to make sure the game can happen. Both teams have played well so far in the tournament.
By Newsroom | Cricket, Sri Lanka |

Match Amidst Uncertainties: Rain and Rivalry Set the Stage

The upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 clash between India and Pakistan in Colombo is generating considerable attention. Reports suggest that the match, scheduled for February 15, 2026, is under a cloud of potential disruption, primarily due to forecasts of heavy rain. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has stepped in to ensure the tournament proceeds smoothly, especially in light of discussions surrounding Pakistan's participation. Despite these off-field developments, both teams are focused on the sporting contest, with India currently holding a slight advantage in group standings.

T20 World Cup 2026: ICC steps in ahead of IND vs PAK showdown; India gain crucial advantage - 1

Background of the Tournament and Team Standings

The ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 features twenty teams playing 55 matches across eight venues, split between India and Sri Lanka. The tournament commenced on February 7, 2026, with a schedule encompassing a group stage, Super 8s, and knockout rounds.

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T20 World Cup 2026: ICC steps in ahead of IND vs PAK showdown; India gain crucial advantage - 2

  • India and Pakistan are currently leading Group A with four points each, having won their initial two matches.

  • India sits at the summit of Group A, boasting a net run rate (NRR) of +3.050, following their victories over the USA and Namibia.

  • Pakistan secured wins against the Netherlands and the USA, placing them closely behind India in the group.

  • The ICC confirmed Pakistan's participation in all scheduled matches, including the encounter with India, following discussions between the ICC, the Pakistan Cricket Board, and the Bangladesh Cricket Board. This confirmation aimed to foster growth in cricket and ensure the tournament's success.

Key Events and Tensions

The build-up to the India-Pakistan fixture has been marked by several points of discussion and potential tension:

T20 World Cup 2026: ICC steps in ahead of IND vs PAK showdown; India gain crucial advantage - 3

  • Training Schedules: Both teams are reportedly holding separate training sessions. Reports indicate India and Pakistan will train at different times in Colombo leading up to their match.

  • Player Conduct: An incident involving Suryakumar Yadav of India and Salman Ali Agha of Pakistan occurred before the toss, where Yadav reportedly did not shake hands with Agha. This has been highlighted as a point of controversy.

  • Pakistan's Participation: The ICC's involvement was crucial in confirming Pakistan's place in the tournament and their fixtures. This followed discussions aimed at ensuring a smooth continuation of the event.

Factors Influencing the Match

Several elements are expected to play a role in the outcome of the India vs. Pakistan match:

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T20 World Cup 2026: ICC steps in ahead of IND vs PAK showdown; India gain crucial advantage - 4

Weather Concerns

  • Rain Forecast: Colombo is experiencing a high risk of rain, with heavy showers predicted for Sunday, February 15, 2026. Forecasts indicate a 65 percent chance of thunderstorms during the day, with a 25 percent chance in the evening.

  • Match Outcome: If the game is washed out, both teams will be awarded one point each, as this group-stage match does not have a reserve day.

  • Ground Staff Readiness: Colombo's ground staff are on high alert, known for their ability to quickly cover the outfield.

Pitch Conditions

  • The pitch at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo is expected to be a significant factor in the match. Discussions have revolved around the potential impact of the pitch on the game.

  • Former India cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has suggested Kuldeep Yadav might replace pacer Arshdeep Singh in India's playing XI against Pakistan, hinting at strategic adjustments based on pitch conditions.

Team Preparation and Advantage

  • Logistical Edge: Pakistan may possess a logistical edge as they have spent considerable time in Colombo, playing matches there. India, conversely, had played previous games in India.

  • Team Dynamics: India's coach, Ten Doeschate, has acknowledged that Pakistan might have an advantage due to acclimatization but stated that India's dressing room has not let off-field issues affect their preparation.

Read More: India vs Pakistan Cricket Match Will Go Ahead As Planned

FactorIndia's PositionPakistan's Position
RankingsWorld No. 1 team, significantly ahead in rankings.Ranked sixth in the world.
Group StandingsLeading Group A with 4 points and +3.050 NRR after two wins.Second in Group A with 4 points, also after two wins.
LocationPlayed previous games in India.Playing all tournament matches in Sri Lanka, with considerable time in Colombo.
Recent EncountersWon all three recent Asia Cup matches against Pakistan.Seeking to reverse recent head-to-head results.
Player FormSuryakumar Yadav's statement regarding pre-match handshake a point of note.Players like Salman Ali Agha involved in pre-match interactions.

Expert Insights

While direct quotes from experts are limited in the provided data, analysis of team advantages suggests a multifaceted view:

  • The coaching staff of both teams are strategizing based on pitch conditions and opponent strengths, as evidenced by potential team changes and tactical considerations.

  • The ICC's active role in facilitating dialogue underscores the importance of this fixture and the tournament at large. Their intervention in matters like Pakistan's participation aims to preserve the integrity and success of the event.

Conclusion and Implications

The India vs. Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026 match is poised to be a highly anticipated contest, but its execution is subject to external factors, most notably weather.

Read More: Rain May Stop India vs. Pakistan Cricket Match in Colombo

  • Potential Outcome: A rain-affected match awarding points to both teams is a distinct possibility.

  • Sporting Rivalry: Despite past controversies and off-field discussions, the focus is shifting towards a pure sporting contest. The ICC's role has been to facilitate this transition.

  • Team Performance: Both India and Pakistan have demonstrated strong starts to the tournament. India's higher ranking and current top position in Group A, coupled with a slight advantage in recent head-to-head results, are notable. However, Pakistan's acclimatization to Sri Lankan conditions could present a challenge.

  • Future Matches: The teams are scheduled to meet on February 15, 2026, in Colombo. Their paths through the tournament will be closely watched.

Sources Used

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will the India vs. Pakistan match happen on February 15, 2026?
The match is planned for February 15, 2026, but heavy rain is expected. If rain stops the game, both teams will get one point.
Q: What is the T20 World Cup?
It is a big cricket tournament with twenty teams playing in India and Sri Lanka. The tournament started on February 7, 2026.
Q: How are India and Pakistan doing in the tournament?
Both India and Pakistan have won their first two games and have the same number of points in Group A. India is currently first because of a better score difference.
Q: Has Pakistan's place in the tournament been confirmed?
Yes, the ICC has said that Pakistan will play in all their scheduled matches, including the one against India.
Q: What are the main worries for this match?
The biggest worry is the chance of heavy rain and thunderstorms in Colombo on the day of the match. The pitch condition might also be important.