(Image source from: AFP)
Rajeev Shukla, the vice-president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), reiterated that India will not engage in any bilateral cricket matches with Pakistan due to the recent terrorist incident in Pahalgam, Kashmir. The last bilateral series between the two nations occurred during the 2012-13 season when Pakistan visited India for a limited-overs event. India's most recent visit to Pakistan was in 2008. Matches between the two teams only take place during international tournaments, such as the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023 where Pakistan will be playing in India. Nonetheless, India declined to send a team to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy in 2025, with all matches, including the final and those against Pakistan, being relocated to Dubai.
Shukla stated, "We stand in solidarity with the victims and denounce this act. We will adhere to whatever directives our government provides. Due to the government’s position, we will not participate in bilateral series with Pakistan, nor do we intend to change that. However, we do compete against them during ICC events because of our commitments to the ICC, which is aware of the current circumstances."
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia voiced his condolences regarding the attack. He expressed, "The cricketing community is profoundly saddened by the tragic loss of innocent lives in the horrific terror attack in Pahalgam yesterday. On behalf of the BCCI, I strongly condemn this atrocious and cowardly act and extend our sincerest sympathies to the grieving families while praying for those who have passed. In this moment of sorrow, we stand united with those affected."
In a respectful display of solidarity, the BCCI honored the victims of the Pahalgam attack during the Indian Premier League (IPL) match number 41, featuring Sunrisers Hyderabad and Mumbai Indians, held at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. A minute of silence was held prior to the match to commemorate those who lost their lives, following an official announcement made over the public address system, as noted in the BCCI's media release.
BCCI pays tribute to victims of Pahalgam Terror Attack
— BCCI (@BCCI) April 23, 2025
More details here - https://t.co/y2N8nrAkHh pic.twitter.com/g1k4llgwsq
This moment of silence permitted both spectators at the stadium and viewers at home to pay their respects. During the toss, the captains from both teams expressed their condolences and condemned the reprehensible act. Throughout the match, players, officials, commentators, and support personnel wore black armbands as a sign of mourning. The commentary team also recognized these gestures on-air, discussing the deep emotional impact of the tribute and the collective sorrow of the nation.
The BCCI further decided to conduct the match in a subdued manner. There were no cheerleaders, celebratory fireworks, music, or DJ entertainment, thereby creating a solemn atmosphere befitting the seriousness of the occasion.
