ArdorComm News Network
April 25, 2025
In the aftermath of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has written to the International Cricket Council (ICC), requesting that India and Pakistan not be placed in the same group in future ICC tournaments. This move reflects a growing reluctance from the Indian board to engage in any form of cricketing ties with Pakistan.
For over a decade, the arch-rivals have found themselves placed in the same group across various ICC events, largely due to the commercial pull of the fixture. However, BCCI’s latest communication, reported by Cricbuzz, indicates a strong stance post the April 22 incident.
BCCI vice-president Rajiv Shukla had already made it clear that India has no intention of engaging in bilateral series with Pakistan. Now, the board is reportedly aiming to limit encounters even on the global stage, citing the ongoing political and security tensions. While the BCCI hasn’t issued a public statement, insiders suggest they will remain silent on the matter for now, especially with no immediate ICC tournaments involving both nations scheduled—barring the women’s ODI World Cup later this year.
Interestingly, Pakistan’s matches in upcoming ICC events are expected to be played outside Indian territory, as per a prior agreement tied to the 2025 Champions Trophy. The hosting rights for this year’s men’s Asia Cup remain with India, although the venue is yet to be confirmed. September is being eyed for the tournament, and it remains unclear whether the two cricketing giants will be drawn into the same group again.
The last Asia Cup followed a hybrid model, where India refused to travel to Pakistan. Most matches, including the final, were held in Sri Lanka, where India defeated the hosts in a dominant 10-wicket win led by Mohammed Siraj.
Source: India Today