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In the wake of the tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reaffirmed its firm stance against playing bilateral cricket matches with Pakistan. The attack, which resulted in the loss of innocent lives, has sparked strong condemnation across the nation, including from the cricketing community.
BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla, speaking to Sports Tak, emphasized that India will continue to avoid bilateral cricketing ties with Pakistan due to the prevailing political and security climate.
“We are with the victims and we condemn it. Whatever our government says, we will follow. We haven’t played a bilateral series with Pakistan because of our government’s stand—and we won’t play them going forward either,” said Shukla.
“When it comes to ICC events, we participate because of existing international commitments. The ICC is fully aware of the situation and will deal with it accordingly.”
India and Pakistan last played a bilateral series in the 2012-13 season, when Pakistan toured India for a short limited-overs series. Since then, cricketing relations between the two nations have remained frozen due to political tensions and repeated cross-border incidents. India last played in Pakistan in 2008.
Even in major tournaments, tensions have had a significant impact. For instance, although Pakistan came to India for the 2023 ICC ODI World Cup, India declined to travel to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy. As a result, India’s matches—including the high-voltage clash against Pakistan and the final—were relocated to Dubai.
A Solemn Tribute to the Victims
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia also expressed heartfelt condolences on behalf of the Indian cricketing community.
“The cricketing community is deeply shocked and anguished by the tragic loss of innocent lives in the gruesome terror attack at Pahalgam. We strongly condemn this ghastly and cowardly act. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families who lost their loved ones. In this moment of grief, we stand in solidarity with them.”
In a touching display of respect and unity, the BCCI paid tribute to the victims during IPL 2025 Match 41 between Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.
Before the match began, a 60-second moment of silence was observed, preceded by a formal announcement across the stadium’s public address system. This allowed both in-stadium spectators and broadcast viewers to join in mourning.
During the toss, the team captains offered their condolences and publicly condemned the heinous attack. Throughout the match, players, officials, and commentators wore black armbands in memory of the victims. The gesture was acknowledged live on air by the commentary team, who reflected on the nation’s shared sorrow.
In a rare move, the BCCI chose to strip the match of all fanfare, opting for a muted and respectful atmosphere. No cheerleader routines, fireworks, music, or DJ performances took place, as the focus remained squarely on honoring the lives lost.
A Message of Unity and Resolve
The events surrounding the Pahalgam terror attack have once again highlighted the complex relationship between sports and geopolitics in the region. For the BCCI, the message is clear: solidarity with the nation comes before sport.
As the cricketing world grieves alongside the victims’ families, the board’s actions reflect a powerful statement—not just against terrorism, but in support of dignity, compassion, and national unity.
Also Read: All Eyes on Pahalgam: Kashmiris Unite to Vow Protection for Every Tourist 2025
