In a strong and emotional statement, former Indian cricket captain and current BCCI president, Sourav Ganguly, has called for a complete severance of cricketing ties between India and Pakistan. His remarks come amidst heightened tensions following a tragic terrorist attack in Kashmir’s Pahalgam region.
Let’s break down everything that’s unfolding:
Sourav Ganguly’s Powerful Stand
Speaking to ANI in Kolkata, Ganguly didn’t mince his words:
“100 per cent, this should be done. Strict action is necessary. It is no joke that such things happen every year. Terrorism cannot be tolerated.”
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Ganguly emphasized the need for decisive action against terrorism.
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He urged India to completely break all cricketing ties with Pakistan.
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He highlighted that sports and terrorism cannot coexist.
The Strained Cricketing Relationship
The cricketing bond between India and Pakistan has been fragile for more than a decade now. Here’s a quick snapshot:
| Timeline | Events & Details |
|---|---|
| 2008 | India last toured Pakistan for the Asia Cup. |
| 2012-13 | Pakistan visited India for a white-ball bilateral series. |
| 2023 | Pakistan participated in ODI World Cup matches in India. |
| 2025 (Upcoming) | India refused to travel to Pakistan for Champions Trophy; matches will be held in Dubai under a hybrid model. |
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Since 2008, there have been no tours by India to Pakistan.
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Bilateral series have been suspended since 2012-13.
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Encounters between the two teams are now restricted only to global ICC events or Asia Cups.
ICC’s Hybrid Model: The New Normal
Due to security concerns and political tensions, even international cricket bodies are adapting:
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The ICC, led by chairman Jay Shah, has introduced a hybrid model for tournaments between 2024–2027.
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Under this, tournaments involving both India and Pakistan will either be split between neutral venues or managed entirely outside Pakistan if India refuses to travel.
This move aims to balance diplomacy, security, and the spirit of international cricket.
Central Government’s Tough Response After Pahalgam Attack
After the tragic terror strike in Pahalgam that claimed 26 innocent lives, the Indian government swiftly took several strong measures:
| Action Taken | Details |
|---|---|
| Closure of Attari ICP | The Integrated Check Post between India and Pakistan was shut down. |
| Suspension of SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme | Pakistani nationals lost special visa privileges. |
| 40-hour Return Window for Pakistanis | Pakistani citizens in India were asked to return swiftly. |
| Reduction in High Commission Staff | Both nations agreed to reduce diplomatic staff numbers. |
These steps underline India’s serious stance against cross-border terrorism.
BCCI Stands Firm: No Bilateral Matches
Backing Sourav Ganguly’s sentiments, BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla also confirmed India’s commitment to distancing from Pakistan in cricket:
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No bilateral series with Pakistan in the foreseeable future.
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India will only face Pakistan in ICC events due to mandatory tournament structures.
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Rajeev Shukla reaffirmed support for the victims and stood firmly behind the Indian government’s decisions.
His statement to Sports Tak was clear:
“We stand with the victims. Our government’s stance is our stance. No bilateral cricket with Pakistan going forward.“
FAQs
1. Why has India not played a bilateral series with Pakistan since 2012-13?
Due to continuous political and security tensions, India suspended bilateral cricket ties with Pakistan after the 2012-13 series. Matches are now limited to ICC and ACC tournaments only.
2. What is the “hybrid model” introduced by ICC?
The hybrid model allows teams to play their matches in neutral venues if political situations prevent travel between countries, ensuring tournaments go on without security risks.
3. Will India participate in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025?
Yes, but India will not travel to Pakistan. Instead, their matches, including the potential final against Pakistan, will be held in Dubai under the hybrid model.
4. Can India and Pakistan still meet in ICC tournaments?
Yes, India and Pakistan will continue to face each other in ICC-organized tournaments like the World Cup, T20 World Cup, and Champions Trophy, but only under specific security arrangements.
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