When questioned about India’s potential participation in the ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan next year, Anurag Thakur, the current Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, didn’t hold back. Reflecting on India’s last cricket venture into Pakistan back in 2006, Thakur highlighted the persistent efforts of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to persuade India to return for a match. However, he underscored a fundamental principle: cricket and terrorism cannot coexist.
Anurag Thakur emphasized that the final decision lies with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Nevertheless, he asserted his stance, firmly stating that India should not consider playing in Pakistan until terrorist activities cease in the region.
Anurag Thakur articulated a stance intertwining cricket and counter-terrorism measures. He asserted that India should refrain from undertaking such a visit as long as Pakistan remains embroiled in terrorism-related activities.
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“See, the BCCI will have to decide. But when I was in the BCCI, I said that two things can’t walk hand-in-hand. You will spread terrorism in India, fire bullets, try to plant bombs, and also talk about playing cricket. These two things can’t continue together. First, stop firing bullets, and planting bombs, and stop terrorism,” he conveyed to News24.
2025 में Champions Trophy खेलने के लिए क्या भारत की टीम पाकिस्तान जाएगी?
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Anurag Thakur added, “Then, the stadiums will be lit up. However, as long as they continue terrorist activities, the Indian team shouldn’t go to Pakistan to play cricket. I had said that before when I was in the BCCI and the board has continued with the same policy.”
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Thakur even sought the opinion of the assembled spectators, who appeared to overwhelmingly endorse his perspective.
Last year, Pakistan was slated to host the Asia Cup in exclusivity. However, owing to India’s reluctance to play in Pakistan, Sri Lanka was roped in as a co-host, leading India to contest all their matches in the island nation.
