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Former Indian cricketer and current head coach of the Indian cricket team, Gautam Gambhir, strongly advocated that India should refrain from playing cricket matches against Pakistan. He emphasized that no engagement between the two countries holds greater importance than the safety and well-being of Indian citizens. Known for his straightforward and uncompromising stance, Gambhir’s remarks came in the wake of the recent Pakistan sponsored terror attack targeting tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.
India-Pakistan cricket not a priority amid national concerns
Gambhir acknowledged that the decision to engage in cricketing ties with Pakistan ultimately lies with the government, but his person opinion is “absolutely no”. However, he reiterated his long-held belief that no cricket match, no artistic interaction or any form of interaction is more important than the lives of Indian soldiers and citizens. He emphasized that while matches will continue, films will be produced and artists will perform, none of these can compare to the pain of losing a loved ones.
Talking to ABP news, Gambhir said “Ultimately, this is government’s decision whether we play them or not. I have said this before also, no cricket match or Bollywood or any other interaction is more important than the life of Indian soldiers and Indian citizens. Matches will keep happening, movies will be made, singers will continue to perform, but nothing comes close to losing a loved one in your family.”
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Gambhir clarifies team’s position on India-Pakistan matches in World Cup and Asia Cup
On being asked about the upcoming India-Pakistan matches in World Cups’ and Asia Cup. Gambhir also clarified that the decision to play against Pakistan does not fall within his jurisdiction and rests with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and, more importantly, the government. He affirmed that the team would fully support and respect whatever decision the government chooses to make.
“This is not up to me, it’s not in my jurisdiction, this is for BCCI and more importantly, the government to decide whether we should play them or not. Whatever the decision government make we will be absolutely fine with it.” Gambhir added.
India-Pakistan bilateral cricketing ties have been on hold since the 2012-13 ODI series due to geopolitical tensions, particularly over cross-border terrorism. Matches are now limited to ICC tournaments with no bilateral series in sight.
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