In a recent media briefing, India’s Minister of Sports, Youth Affairs, and Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Anurag Thakur, reiterated India’s stance on not sending its cricket team to Pakistan for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. Thakur, who is also an Ex-Chief of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), made it clear that the decision was rooted in concerns over terrorism.
Thakur did not shy away from making political statements within the realm of sports, describing Pakistan as a country that fosters terrorism in the South Asian region. He emphasized that until Pakistan addresses terrorism within its borders, cricketing engagements between the two nations would remain untenable.
During his tenure at the BCCI, Thakur had advocated for a separation between cricket and politics, asserting that the sport should not be used as a diplomatic tool amidst heightened tensions.
He urged the BCCI to negotiate with the International Cricket Council (ICC) for a hybrid hosting model, similar to what was done during the Asia Cup last year. In the 2023 Asia Cup, Pakistan co-hosted the event with Sri Lanka after India refused to play matches in Pakistan. This decision led to logistical challenges for Pakistan, as they had to travel back and forth between their home country and Sri Lanka, resulting in player fatigue.
Thakur’s remarks come at a time when India is gearing up for general elections, suggesting a broader political context to the decision. Critics argue that such actions may politicize sports and undermine the spirit of the game.
Nevertheless, India remains resolute in its stance against playing cricket in Pakistan, citing security concerns and the need for Pakistan to address terrorism as prerequisites for sporting engagements between the two nations.
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