‘Not now, not ever’: Former Indian wicketkeeper urges BCCI to stop playing cricket with Pakistan after Pahalgam attack

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No cricket with Pakistan: Shreevats Goswami pleads BCCI
Goswami recalls emotional visit to J&K

In the wake of the devastating terror attack in Jammu & Kashmir’s Pahalgam that claimed the lives of 26 civilians, former Indian wicketkeeper Shreevats Goswami has urged the BCCI to sever all cricketing ties with Pakistan. Reacting strongly on social media, Goswami voiced his anger, calling for an end to sporting diplomacy in light of continued acts of violence targeting Indian citizens.

No cricket with Pakistan: Shreevats Goswami pleads BCCI

Goswami issued a resounding call for India to completely cut off cricketing relations with Pakistan. His tone was assertive and unflinching as he condemned the idea that sport should be immune from geopolitical realities. He criticized those who promote the notion that “sport should rise above politics,” especially in the face of repeated terrorist attacks that claim innocent Indian lives.

Referring to the refusal to send the Indian team to the Champions Trophy in Pakistan, Goswami expressed disbelief at how some could still advocate for cricketing ties. He drew a stark contrast between the values of the game and the violent acts perpetuated across the border, stating that if violence is how Pakistan chooses to operate, then India must respond with strength and unwavering resolve—not through cricket, but with dignity and zero tolerance.

“SAY NO TO CRICKET ! And this is exactly why I say – you don’t play cricket with Pakistan. Not now. Not ever. When BCCI or the government refused to send India to the Champions Trophy in Pakistan, some had the audacity to say, ‘Oh, but sport should rise above politics.’ Really? Because from where I stand, murdering innocent Indians seems to be their national sport. And if that’s how they play – then it’s time we respond in a language they truly understand. Not with bats and balls. But with resolve. With dignity. With zero tolerance,” wrote Goswami in a post shared on X.

Also READ: From Virat Kohli to KL Rahul: Indian cricketers unite in condemning deadly Pahalgam terror attack

Goswami recalls emotional visit to J&K

Goswami revealed a more personal, emotional response to the tragedy. He reflected on his recent trip to Kashmir, where he had participated in the Legends League and walked the very streets of Pahalgam. He recalled witnessing the return of peace and hope in the eyes of the local residents—a hope that has now been cruelly shattered by the terror attack. Goswami emphasized that this is no longer the time for symbolic gestures or diplomatic courtesy; it is a moment for the country to take a firm stand.

“I’m furious. I’m devastated. Just a few months ago, I was in Kashmir for the Legends League – I walked through Pahalgam, met the locals, saw hope returning to their eyes. It felt like peace had finally found its way back. And now… this bloodshed again. It breaks something inside you. It makes you question how many more times we’re expected to stay silent, stay “sporting,” while our people die. No more. Not this time,” he added.