BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla emphasized the necessity of Indian government approval for any cricketing series against Pakistan. During his visit to Lahore for the Champions Trophy, he praised Pakistan’s efforts in hosting the event but reiterated that bilateral matches should only occur on home soil between the two nations, not at neutral venues.
Rajeev Shukla, the Vice-President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), has articulated the Indian government’s firm position concerning cricketing ties with Pakistan. He asserted that any potential bilateral series would only proceed upon receiving explicit approval from the Indian government. Shukla recently visited Lahore for the semi-final of the Champions Trophy, an event he praised Pakistan for organizing successfully after a 29-year hiatus from hosting ICC events.
During his interaction with the Pakistani media, Shukla highlighted the importance of the Indian government’s consent, emphasizing that BCCI will strictly adhere to governmental directives. He remarked, “As far as you are asking about (cricket) between the two countries, it is very categorical and clear that it is the (Indian) government’s decision. Whatever the government of India says, we will go as per them.”
Responding to inquiries about playing the India-Pakistan series at a neutral venue, Shukla expressed skepticism regarding such arrangements. He explained, “It is true that fans from both the countries want the teams to play, but the BCCI policy has been, and PCB would too have such a policy, that bilateral matches should be held on each other’s soil and not at a third (or) neutral venue.”
Shukla also acknowledged the interest from various nations in hosting an India-Pakistan match, stating, “Every other country would offer to host India-Pakistan, who would not? We (BCCI) keep our point in front of the government, but they decide after their deliberations.” He reiterated the complexity and significance of governmental decisions in this matter, noting that these decisions involve thorough consideration of numerous factors.
In summary, Rajeev Shukla affirmed that the resumption of cricketing ties between India and Pakistan hinges on the Indian government’s approval. He acknowledged Pakistan’s competent hosting of the Champions Trophy yet maintained that any bilateral series must occur on home soil, in accordance with existing BCCI policies. Ultimately, the decision remains with the Indian government, which considers multiple factors before reaching a conclusion.
Original Source: www.indiatvnews.com
