BCCI’s Rajeev Shukla Avoids Talks on India-Pakistan Cricket Resumption

LAHORE: The Pakistan cricket team did not make it to the later stages of the Champions Trophy, but a national sports hero graced the Gaddafi Stadium on Wednesday during the semi-final clash between South Africa and New Zealand.

Olympic javelin champion Arshad Nadeem carried the trophy to the field, marking the opening of the last-four contest in front of a modest crowd that grew in numbers as the evening progressed.

Despite the historic significance of hosting an International Cricket Council (ICC) tournament in Pakistan for the first time in nearly three decades, the enthusiasm remained low. The disappointment of Pakistan’s early exit, combined with the semi-final being scheduled on a weekday during Ramadan, contributed to the subdued atmosphere.

This was the last Champions Trophy match played in Pakistan, as India had opted to play all its games in Dubai under the hybrid hosting arrangement agreed upon by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The agreement ensured that if India reached the final, it would be held in Dubai. With India securing a dominant victory over Australia in the first semi-final, the final’s venue was confirmed.

Rajeev Shukla on India-Pakistan Cricket Ties

BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla, who was in Lahore alongside other international cricket officials, sparked speculation regarding the potential resumption of India-Pakistan cricket ties.

When asked about Pakistan missing the chance to host the Champions Trophy final, Shukla jokingly responded, “You should’ve asked Australia to win.”

His presence in Pakistan fueled questions about whether bilateral cricket between India and Pakistan could return, even on neutral grounds. However, Shukla deflected the question, stating, “Any country in the world would want to host an India-Pakistan game.”

Government Approval Required for Bilateral Series

Currently, India and Pakistan only compete in ICC events, with no bilateral series taking place due to political tensions. Shukla reaffirmed that any decision on resuming India-Pakistan cricket ties depends on government directives.

“It’s true that fans want to see this contest,” he acknowledged. “But as a matter of policy, both the BCCI and PCB have always been clear about hosting a bilateral series on home soil. If India were to tour Pakistan, it would require government approval.”

Shukla’s remarks did not offer any indication of a potential breakthrough, keeping the possibility of India-Pakistan cricket ties in limbo. With the final set to be played in Dubai, Pakistan’s role as a host has once again been overshadowed by political and logistical challenges.