Head-of-state level security in Sri Lanka for India-Pakistan clash amid ongoing uncertainty
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka Cricket has reiterated its neutral stance amid the diplomatic and cricketing standoff among neighbouring nations, with board secretary Bandula Dissanayake stating they will not get involved in their disputes.
Note: This English version was translated on September 4, 2026 as part of Cricraze's bilingual archive initiative.
Clouds of uncertainty continue to hover over Pakistan's participation in the T20 World Cup, and whether they will take the field against India if they do play. Despite the ambiguity, co-hosts Sri Lanka are leaving no stone unturned in their preparations, putting in place unprecedented security measures ahead of the high-voltage India-Pakistan clash scheduled for February 15 in Colombo.
Sri Lankan officials told news agency AFP that elite commando units—typically reserved for visiting foreign heads of state—will be deployed to safeguard participating teams, with extra focus placed on matches involving India and Pakistan.
"Hosting a seamless tournament is our top priority. We are keeping a close eye on the India and Pakistan matches in particular," Sri Lanka Sports Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage said. A security official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that teams will be covered under an impenetrable blanket of armed security from the moment they land at Colombo airport until their departure.
The ICC had previously moved Pakistan's matches to neutral venues in Sri Lanka after Pakistan refused to play in India due to political tensions. However, a fresh crisis emerged after the ICC dismissed Bangladesh's security concerns and replaced them with Scotland. Rumours suggest Pakistan might boycott the India fixture in solidarity with Bangladesh. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi is expected to announce a final decision between Friday and Monday.
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka Cricket has maintained a neutral stance regarding the diplomatic and cricketing rifts among its neighbours. Board Secretary Bandula Dissanayake stated, "India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh are all friendly nations to us. We are not getting involved in their disputes."