BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla stated that any cricket bilateral series between India and Pakistan depends on Indian government approval. He praised Pakistan’s successful hosting of the Champions Trophy, but reiterated that matches should occur on home grounds, not neutral venues, in line with government policy.
Rajeev Shukla, vice-president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), emphasized the pivotal role of the Indian government in determining the resumption of cricketing ties with Pakistan. He stated that a bilateral series between the two nations can only commence with government clearance. Shukla recently attended the second semi-final of the Champions Trophy in Lahore, where he acknowledged Pakistan’s successful hosting of the event, marking their first ICC event in 29 years.
Shukla affirmed the BCCI’s entrenched policy, which insists that bilateral matches between India and Pakistan must take place on their respective home grounds rather than at neutral venues. He acknowledged that fans in both nations desire these encounters but reiterated the importance of adhering to official policies, which include a requirement for government consent. He described this governmental oversight as a significant factor in any future agreements on cricketing engagements.
Regarding potential venues for India-Pakistan matches, Shukla noted that many countries are eager to host such high-profile games. However, he clarified that while the BCCI presents its case to the Indian government, the ultimate decision incorporates a myriad of considerations and remains an internal matter for the government to deliberate.
In conclusion, Rajeev Shukla has made it abundantly clear that the Indian government’s stance is crucial in determining whether cricketing ties between India and Pakistan can be resumed. While there is acknowledgment of fan enthusiasm for matches, the BCCI remains firm on its policy requiring bilateral matches to occur on home soil and only with government consent, which ultimately governs these engagements.
Original Source: www.indiatvnews.com
