India Stands Firm on Cricket Ties with Pakistan: No Matches Without Government Nod

BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla confirmed India's stance on Pakistan cricket ties, necessitating government consent for bilateral series. Citing security concerns and strained relations, Shukla emphasized adherence to policies of playing international events on 'third soil' and not engaging in bilateral tours. The last series was held in 2012-13.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reiterated its firm stance on not engaging in bilateral cricket series with Pakistan without the express approval of the Indian government. BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla emphasized that in light of the strained relations between the two countries, the board will strictly follow the government's directive on any potential matches.

Addressing ANI, Shukla noted that the policy aligns with the International Cricket Council's provisions, which dictate that member boards must adhere to their government's stances regarding specific countries. Since the last bilateral series in 2012-13, where Pakistan toured India, security concerns and geopolitical tensions have hampered further engagements.

Shukla highlighted the Indian government's policy of playing matches on a 'third soil' for international tournaments, excluding bilateral tours with Pakistan. He cited the 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore as a longstanding concern, underscoring the ongoing security risks that make bilateral tours difficult.

(With inputs from agencies.)