After the tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which killed 26 innocent people, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) made it clear that India will not play any bilateral cricket matches with Pakistan. BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla said that the board stands with the victims and will continue to follow the government’s decision on this issue.

Speaking to Sports Tak, Shukla said, “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 events, we play due to ICC engagement. ICC is also aware that whatever is happening, they will do it.”

India and Pakistan have not played a bilateral cricket series since 2012-13, when Pakistan visited India for a short limited-overs series. The last time India travelled to Pakistan was in 2008. Since then, the two countries have only faced each other in international tournaments like the ICC World Cup and the Asia Cup. Even in the Champions Trophy 2025, India refused to travel to Pakistan, and their matches, including one against Pakistan and the final, were held in Dubai.

IPL match turns into a tribute for victims

The BCCI also paid tribute to the victims of the Pahalgam attack during IPL match number 41 between Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Mumbai Indians (MI), held at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.

Before the match began, there was a 60-second moment of silence to honour those who lost their lives. This tribute was announced through the stadium’s public address system, allowing everyone in the stadium and those watching on TV to join in the remembrance.

During the toss, the team captains expressed their condolences and condemned the terrorist act. To show respect, all players, match officials, commentators, and support staff wore black armbands throughout the match. The commentary team also spoke about this emotional moment during the live broadcast.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia also shared his feelings. He said, “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 the 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.”

To keep the atmosphere respectful, BCCI decided that the match would be held without any fanfare. There were no cheerleaders, fireworks, loud music, or DJ shows during the game. This decision helped maintain a serious and respectful tone throughout the match.

 

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