After the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of innocent civilians, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has taken a clear stance—there will be no bilateral cricket with Pakistan. BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla confirmed this while speaking to Sports Tak.
“We are with the victims and we condemn it. Whatever our government will say, we will do. We don’t play with Pakistan in bilateral series because of the government stand. And we will not play with Pakistan in bilaterals going forward. But when it comes to ICC event we play due to ICC engagement. ICC is also aware whatever is happening they will to it,” Shukla said.
He emphasised that this decision aligns with the Indian government’s policy. Despite the presence of both teams in international events, no bilateral matches will be held. India and Pakistan last played a bilateral series in 2012-13 when Pakistan toured India for limited-overs matches. India last visited Pakistan for cricket in 2008.
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Since then, the two sides have only played in ICC and ACC events, including the ODI World Cup 2023, where Pakistan visited India. For the 2025 Champions Trophy, India declined to play in Pakistan and all their matches, including one against Pakistan and the final, were held in Dubai.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia also responded to the terror incident, expressing sorrow and offering condolences to the affected families. “The cricketing community is deeply shocked and anguished by the tragic loss of innocent lives in the gruesome terror attack at Pahalgam yesterday. On behalf of the BCCI, while condemning this ghastly and cowardly act with strongest possible words, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayers for the departed souls. In sharing their pain and grief, we stand hand in hand at this hour of tragedy,” he said.
The BCCI’s response confirms that while cricket between the two nations may happen during global tournaments, any bilateral engagement remains off the table due to ongoing political tensions and national policy.
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