After prolonged talks, Pakistan's government finally allowed its national cricket team to play the Twenty20 World Cup match against India on Sunday. Pakistan had initially refused to play the high-profile match after Scotland replaced Bangladesh in the tournament, following Bangladesh's refusal to visit India citing security worries. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) protested this ICC decision. Although Pakistan's team was allowed to enter the tournament, it was told to forfeit the game against India. Facing financial risks, the International Cricket Council (ICC) sent its director Imran Khawaja to Pakistan over the weekend to negotiate. Bangladesh Cricket Board chief Aminul Islam also joined efforts, with PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi leading Pakistan's side. Sri Lanka and UAE, hosts for Pakistan's other World Cup matches, also urged Pakistan to reconsider. Pakistan sought fairness in cricket governance, challenging the ICC's India-centric decisions. The ICC responded by not punishing Bangladesh and granting it hosting rights for a future tournament to lessen penalties. Pakistan's decision to play India now helps secure funding for cricket globally, especially for smaller members. This step could signal a fresh start in cricket administration, calling for sports to stay clear of political agendas. The ICC should work to restore normal cricket ties between India and Pakistan once current neutral-venue agreements end, boosting its role as a fair and neutral cricket body.