The last bilateral series between India and Pakistan took place in 2012–2013.
Strong reactions have surfaced around India, especially from the cricket community, in the wake of the devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu Kashmir (IIOJK), which took the lives of at least 26 innocent visitors.
Vice-President of the BCCI Rajeev Shukla was among those who responded, emphasizing that India will not play Pakistan in a bilateral cricket series.
Due to political concerns, India and Pakistan’s bilateral cricket connections have been frozen for years; Shukla’s remarks further support the notion that a restart is unlikely anytime soon.
Shukla told a local television, “We condemn it and we stand with the victims.”
“We’ll do whatever our government says. Due to the government’s stance, we don’t play in bilateral series with Pakistan. Furthermore, we shall no longer engage in bilateral relations with Pakistan. However, we participate in ICC events because of ICC engagement. Whatever is going on, ICC is also aware of it,” he continued.
The last bilateral series between India and Pakistan took place in 2012–2013. The two teams have only played each other in ICC and ACC competitions since then, with their most recent encounter taking place at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Dubai.
In a statement, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia also denounced the attack and expressed sympathy to the families of the victims.
The terrible loss of innocent life in yesterday’s horrific terror incident at Pahalgam has left the cricketing fraternity in shock and agony. In addition to strongly denouncing this heinous and despicable crime on behalf of the BCCI, I would like to offer our deepest sympathies to the families of the deceased and offer prayers for their souls. At this tragic time, we stand together in sharing their sorrow and loss,” Saikia remarked.
FAQs
Why has Rajeev Shukla stated that India will not play Pakistan in bilateral cricket series?
Rajeev Shukla cited India’s government policy and recent terror attacks, like the Pahalgam incident, as the reason for not resuming bilateral cricket ties with Pakistan.
When was the last time India and Pakistan played a bilateral series?
The last bilateral series between India and Pakistan was held in 2012–2013. Since then, the two teams have only met in ICC or ACC tournaments.
Will India still play Pakistan in ICC tournaments?
Yes, Shukla confirmed that India will continue playing Pakistan in ICC and ACC events as required by international commitments, but not in bilateral series.
What happened in Pahalgam that prompted this response?
A terrorist attack in Pahalgam (IIOJK) resulted in the deaths of at least 26 civilians, sparking strong national and cricket community outrage, including official statements from BCCI officials.
What did the BCCI say about the attack?
BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla and Secretary Devajit Saikia both condemned the attack and extended condolences to the victims’ families, emphasizing solidarity with the nation in a time of grief.
