Amidst the looming uncertainty surrounding India’s potential involvement in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to be hosted by Pakistan, Sports Minister Anurag Thakur shared his views on this. “India should refrain from participating in cricket matches held in Pakistan until Pakistan clearly renounces terrorism,” emphatically stated Thakur and said that the ultimate decision rests with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Firmly asserting that cricket and terrorism cannot coexist, Thakur articulated, “It is incongruous to propagate acts of terrorism and simultaneously expect cricket matches to proceed unaffected.” Thakur reiterated his stance, emphasizing that until Pakistan takes decisive action against terrorist activities within its borders, India should abstain from participating in cricketing events hosted by Pakistan.
He stressed the importance of Pakistan prioritizing counterterrorism efforts before normalizing sporting relations with India. During his candid interview with News24, Thakur reiterated the principled stand he championed during his tenure with the BCCI, reiterating the fundamental disconnect between terrorism and cricket.
He called upon the BCCI to uphold this principled stance, affirming that India’s decisions about cricket should remain aligned with its unwavering stance against terrorism.
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2025 में Champions Trophy खेलने के लिए क्या भारत की टीम पाकिस्तान जाएगी?
— News24 (@news24tvchannel) April 5, 2024
◆ News24 के मंथन मंच पर केंद्रीय मंत्री अनुराग ठाकुर ने बताया @ianuragthakur| @anurradhaprasad | #Manthan2024 | #Manthan24 | @VibhuBhola pic.twitter.com/TkjT7hYTO2
Public Support Reinforces India’s Anti-Terrorism Stand in Sports
In a bid to gauge public sentiment, Thakur also sought the opinion of spectators present, noting their resounding support for his viewpoint. This palpable resonance underscores the deeply held belief among Indian citizens that India’s uncompromising stance against terrorism must be upheld in all spheres, including sports diplomacy.
Furthermore, the discussion delved into past instances, such as India’s apprehension to participate in cricket matches held in Pakistan during the Asia Cup. This historical context serves to underscore the enduring security concerns that shape India’s approach to cricketing engagements with Pakistan. Thus, it reflects a broader pattern wherein India’s commitment to combating terrorism informs its decisions regarding bilateral sporting interactions.
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