BCCI urge ICC to put India and Pakistan in separate groups in upcoming events after Pahalgam terror attack

In the aftermath of the heartbreaking terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir—an incident that claimed the lives of 26 innocent people and left many others wounded—the world of cricket is feeling the impact. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), reflecting the sombre national mood, is reportedly preparing to urge the International Cricket Council (ICC) to avoid grouping India and Pakistan together in future tournaments. The move is driven by both emotional and security concerns, as tensions between the two nations extend far beyond the cricket pitch.

BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla echoed the sentiments of many Indians while reaffirming the board's clear stance on bilateral relations with Pakistan.

“We stand with the victims and condemn this attack in the strongest terms,” he said. “We do not play bilateral series with Pakistan due to the government's position, and that will remain unchanged. If we face them, it’s only under the ICC’s mandatory tournament framework.”

The decision follows India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. In response, the ICC implemented a hybrid hosting model that allowed India to play its matches in Dubai instead. That tournament saw India and Pakistan square off in a high-stakes clash in the UAE, a match India won before eventually lifting the trophy. But beyond the result, the arrangement underscored the logistical and political tightrope international cricket must walk when it comes to this storied rivalry.

The Pahalgam tragedy has touched hearts across the cricketing community. BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia spoke with raw emotion as he shared the board’s grief: “We’re deeply shocked and anguished by the loss of innocent lives in this gruesome attack. On behalf of the BCCI, I extend heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. We stand united with them during this dark and painful time.”

The cricket field, often a place of joy and celebration, turned into a space of silent tribute during the 41st IPL match between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Mumbai Indians. Players, coaches, umpires, and even commentators donned black armbands. Before the match began, they bowed their heads in a moment of silence, offering a unified message of respect and solidarity to the grieving families.