India to not play any bilaterals with Pakistan post Pahalgam terror attack: Rajeev Shukla

Following the horrific terror attack in Pahalgam, South Kashmir, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has repeated its long-standing stand of not engaging in bilateral cricket with Pakistan. BCCI vice president Rajeev Shukla confirmed that India will continue to stay away from bilateral matches with Pakistan, citing the government’s position and national sentiment following the tragic events.

On April 22, Pahalgam in Kashmir was shaken by a brutal terror attack that claimed at least 26 innocent lives and left more than 20 injured. The violence, which took place at the Baisaran, has deeply wounded the nation and prompted an outpouring of grief, anger, and calls for justice. Reacting to the tragic incident, Shukla offered his condolences to the victims’ families and condemned the act.

“We are with the victims and we condemn it. Whatever our government will say Will do. We don’t play with Pakistan in bilateral series because of the government stand.  And we will not play with Pakistan in bilaterals going forward. But when the it comes to ICC event we play due to ICC engagement. ICC is also aware whatever is happening they Will to it,” he told Sports Tak.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia also expressed his sorrow over the attack, describing the cricketing fraternity being deeply shocked and saddened by the horrific incident that claimed the lives and injured many innocent people.

“The cricketing community is deeply shocked and anguished by the tragic loss of innocent lives in the gruesome terror attack at Pahalgam yesterday. On behalf of the BCCI, while condemning this ghastly and cowardly act with strongest possible words, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayers for the departed souls. In sharing their pain and grief, we stand hand in hand at this hour of tragedy,” Saikia told Sports Tak.

Notably, the BCCI has announced a series of respectful tributes during the IPL 2025 clash between Mumbai Indians and Sunrisers Hyderabad, scheduled for April 23. A minute of silence will be observed before the match at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. Players and officials from both teams will don black armbands as a mark of mourning. Additionally, all celebratory elements, including fireworks and cheerleader performances, have been cancelled as a gesture of respect.

Star batter Virat Kohli, along with Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Shubman Gill, and many former and current cricketers, took to social media to express condolences and condemn the attack.

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