New Delhi: BCCI Sends Firm Message to Pakistan After Pahalgam Terror Attack: “No Bilateral Cricket”
In a strong response to the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 civilians, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reiterated its firm stance on not engaging in bilateral cricket with Pakistan.
Speaking to Sports Tak, BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla emphasized that India’s position remains aligned with the government’s stand on diplomatic and sporting relations with Pakistan.
“We are with the victims and we condemn this attack. Whatever our government decides, we will follow. We haven’t played any bilateral series with Pakistan because of the government’s position—and we will not do so in the future either. When it comes to ICC events, we participate due to international obligations, but the ICC is also aware of the situation,” said Shukla.
India’s Longstanding Stance on Cricket Ties with Pakistan
India and Pakistan have not played a bilateral cricket series since 2012-13, when Pakistan toured India for a short limited-overs series. India last toured Pakistan in 2008. Since then, matches between the two teams have occurred only in multinational ICC or ACC tournaments. Notably, while Pakistan played in India during the 2023 ICC ODI World Cup, India refused to travel to Pakistan for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025, leading to matches—including the India-Pakistan fixture—being relocated to Dubai.
Cricketing Community Stands in Solidarity
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia also expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy:
“The cricketing community is deeply shocked and anguished by the tragic loss of innocent lives in the gruesome terror attack at Pahalgam. On behalf of the BCCI, we condemn this cowardly act in the strongest possible terms. We offer our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and pray for the departed souls. In this hour of tragedy, we stand with the victims and their loved ones.”
Tributes Paid During IPL Match
During IPL 2025 Match No. 41 between Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, the BCCI and players paid tribute to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack in a solemn and respectful manner:
A 60-second moment of silence was observed before the match began, with an announcement over the stadium’s public address system inviting fans and viewers to participate.
Players, match officials, commentators, and support staff all wore black armbands as a mark of mourning.
During the toss, the captains of both teams publicly offered their condolences and condemned the attack.
The commentary team acknowledged the tributes on-air, sharing in the nation’s grief and highlighting the emotional significance of the gestures.
In a mark of respect, the BCCI opted to conduct the match without celebratory elements—no cheerleaders, fireworks, music, or DJ entertainment. This ensured a dignified and somber atmosphere, in line with the gravity of the national tragedy.
The BCCI’s actions reflect a united front within the Indian cricketing ecosystem—one that stands firmly against terrorism and in solidarity with the victims of the Pahalgam attack.
