BCCI Vice-President Rajiv Shukla addressed the press, stating that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) stands with the government by any means necessary. He announced that India will not participate in bilateral series against Pakistan moving forward.
Since 2013, India has not played any bilateral series against Pakistan, although the two teams often meet in the World Cup or the Asia Cup. While Pakistan visited India for the 2023 World Cup, India declined an invitation to participate in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which will be held in Pakistan. Consequently, India's matches were played in Dubai, where India emerged as the tournament champion. India last visited Pakistan for a bilateral series in 2008.
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During the press conference, Rajiv Shukla expressed his deep condolences regarding the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, stating that the BCCI stands with the victims and their families.
“We are with the victims, and we condemn this attack. Whatever our government decides, we will follow,” he said.
Also Read: Former Indian Cricketer Shreevats Goswami Sends Strong Message After Pahalgam Terror Attack
Shukla reiterated that while India will not play bilateral series against Pakistan, they will still face Pakistan in ICC tournaments due to ongoing ICC engagement.
“Currently, we do not play with Pakistan in bilateral series due to the government's stance. However, we will participate in ICC events because of our commitments to the ICC. They are also aware of the current situation,” he added.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Sakariya also extended his condolences to the victims and their families.
“The cricketing community is deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic loss of innocent lives in the horrific terror attack at Pahalgam. On behalf of the BCCI, I condemn this cowardly act in the strongest terms and express our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. We share in their pain and grief, standing united during this time of tragedy,” Saikia expressed.
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BCCI Leads Tribute After Pahalgam Attack
The BCCI paid tribute to the victims during the match between Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Mumbai Indians (MI). A 60-second silent tribute was observed, with audience participation and the captains sharing messages for the victims and their families. To show gratitude and respect, there were no cheerleaders or fireworks during the match, and the players wore black armbands to honor the victims.
Also Read: Indian Cricket Stars Condemn Pahalgam Terror Attack, Call for Justice and Unity
