Over 100,000 ticket requests flood in for Pakistan–India clash in Colombo

WEB DESK: The Sri Lanka Cricket Board has received more than 100,000 ticket requests for the highly anticipated Pakistan–India match in Colombo, reflecting the immense excitement surrounding the contest.

However, the R. Premadasa Stadium, the venue for the clash, has a seating capacity of only 35,000 spectators. With demand far exceeding available seats, all tickets have already been sold out well ahead of the match.

The Pakistan–India encounter is scheduled to take place on February 15 in Colombo. Given the overwhelming response, concerns have emerged about tickets being resold on the black market at inflated prices.

PCB granted permission to play against India

Earlier this week, the federal government had formally permitted the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to take part in the highly anticipated match scheduled for February 15. The announcement follows an official statement by the International Cricket Council (ICC) addressing Pakistan’s concerns over the removal of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) from the ongoing global tournament.

Earlier, the ICC accepted Pakistan’s position and waived any potential fines against Bangladesh after the team declined to participate in the T20 World Cup 2026. The decision helped ease tensions that had strained international cricket relations in recent weeks. According to an ICC official, discussions among the stakeholders remained constructive, with all parties agreeing to prioritise the long-term interests of the sport over conflict.

As part of the resolution, the ICC confirmed that no financial penalty would be imposed on the BCB despite its absence from the tournament, a move described as disappointing but manageable through mutual understanding and cooperation.

BCB President Md Aminul Islam expressed gratitude to the PCB for its support during the dispute, praising Pakistan’s efforts and calling for continued brotherhood between the two cricketing nations. He also urged Pakistan to play the February 15 fixture against India for the benefit of the broader cricket ecosystem.

Sri Lanka, the tournament’s co-host, similarly welcomed Pakistan’s decision to participate in the high-profile clash in Colombo, marking a significant step toward restoring stability in international cricket.