As emotions run high in the aftermath of the brutal terrorist attack on tourists in Pahalgam, strong reactions have poured in from all quarters — including the cricketing world. One of the most vocal critics has been former Pakistan leg-spinner Danish Kaneria, who lashed out at Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar for describing the attackers as “freedom fighters.”

The heinous attack in the scenic Kashmir town, which claimed 26 innocent lives, has been described as the deadliest since the 2019 Pulwama tragedy. Yet Dar’s controversial remarks sparked fresh outrage. “Those who carried out the attacks might be freedom fighters,” he stated, drawing intense criticism internationally and particularly from his own countryman, Kaneria.

In a strongly worded tweet, Danish Kaneria condemned Dar’s comment, saying, “When the Deputy Prime Minister of Pakistan calls terrorists ‘freedom fighters,’ it’s not just a disgrace — it’s an open admission of state-sponsored terrorism.”

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Danish Kaneria, who has never shied away from speaking truth to power, had earlier criticised Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for remaining silent in the face of such a horrific tragedy.

When the Deputy Prime Minister of Pakistan calls terrorists “freedom fighters,” it’s not just a disgrace — it’s an open admission of state-sponsored terrorism. pic.twitter.com/QlS1UDzq20

— Danish Kaneria (@DanishKaneria61) April 24, 2025

In the wake of escalating cross-border tensions, even cricket hasn’t remained untouched. Reports indicate that the broadcast of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) may be disrupted, as the Indian technical crew involved with the tournament’s production are being pulled out. The Pakistan Cricket Board is now scrambling to find replacements to keep the league operational.

The National Security Council in Islamabad has issued a statement urging all Indian nationals in Pakistan to exit the country within 48 hours, further straining already fragile relations.

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Back in India, the cricketing community joined the nation in mourning. Legends like Sachin Tendulkar and current icons such as Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah voiced their grief and solidarity with the victims’ families. “The families must be going through an unimaginable ordeal. India and the world stand united with them,” Tendulkar posted.

Shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic attacks on innocent people in Pahalgam.

The affected families must be going through an unimaginable ordeal – India and the world stand united with them at this dark hour, as we mourn the loss of lives and pray for justice.

— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) April 23, 2025

Calls have now intensified for India to sever all sporting ties with Pakistan — a sentiment that’s rapidly gaining momentum both among fans and within cricketing circles.