In the aftermath of the devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reaffirmed its stance against engaging in bilateral cricket ties with Pakistan. The attack, carried out by members of The Resistance Front, claimed the lives of over 20 innocent tourists and left many injured, sparking outrage across the nation.
BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla, in an exclusive interview with Sports Tak, expressed the board's solidarity with the victims and their families. "We are with the victims, and we condemn this heinous act. Whatever our government says, we will follow. We don’t play with Pakistan in bilateral series because of the government’s stand, and this will continue going forward," Shukla stated. He also clarified that while India will not engage in bilateral matches, the team will participate in ICC events involving Pakistan due to international commitments.
The cricketing community, both current and former players, has strongly condemned the attack. Indian cricketer Shreevats Goswami took to social media, urging the BCCI to sever all cricketing ties with Pakistan. His bold plea resonated with many, reflecting the collective grief and anger over the tragic incident.
The Pahalgam attack, one of the deadliest since Pulwama in 2019, has further strained the already tense relations between the two nations. The BCCI's decision aligns with the Indian government's firm stance on cross-border terrorism and its impact on diplomatic and sporting relations.
As a mark of respect for the victims, players from Sunrisers Hyderabad and Mumbai Indians observed a minute's silence and wore black armbands during their IPL match on April 23. The gesture underscored the cricketing fraternity's shared grief and solidarity with those affected by the tragedy.
The decision to rule out bilateral series with Pakistan highlights the intersection of sports and geopolitics, where cricket often becomes a reflection of broader national sentiments. While the BCCI's stance is clear, the international cricketing community continues to watch closely, urging both nations to prioritize peace and dialogue over conflict.