Shukla: No Bilateral Indo-Pak Cricket Without Government Nod
M Naeem Khan
Lahore: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Vice President Rajiv Shukla has stated that a bilateral cricket series between Pakistan and India can only take place if the governments of both countries decide to engage on the matter.
Speaking to the media during the second semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy between New Zealand and South Africa at the Gaddafi Stadium on Wednesday, Shukla emphasized that while hosting a Pakistan-India series is an appealing idea, the decision ultimately rests with the Indian government and not the International Cricket Council (ICC).
Shukla is among several high-ranking cricket officials who arrived in Lahore on the special invitation of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.
Other dignitaries include Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) President Faruque Ahmed, Cricket South Africa (CSA) Executive Director (CEO) Pholetsi Moseki, CSA Vice President Dr. Mohammed Moosajee, and New Zealand Cricket (NZC) Director Roger Twose. The delegation attended the semi-final match at Gaddafi Stadium.
When asked about the prospects of resuming bilateral cricket ties, Shukla refrained from giving a timeline, reiterating that the decision depends on both governments. He also referenced an ICC provision requiring government approval for teams to participate in ICC events.
Addressing the possibility of hosting an India-Pakistan series at a neutral venue, Shukla—who is also a member of the Rajya Sabha—stated that while cricket fans eagerly anticipate such a contest, the BCCI’s policy is to play bilateral series only on each other’s soil.
Commenting on the England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) offer to host a Pakistan-India series in England, he remarked, “Who wouldn’t want to host an India-Pakistan series in their country?”
Shukla also praised the organization of the Champions Trophy in Pakistan, commending the PCB’s efforts in hosting a well-structured tournament. Expressing admiration for the newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium, he described the experience of watching the semi-final as enjoyable.
Regarding India playing all its Champions Trophy 2025 matches at a single venue in Dubai, he dismissed concerns about fairness, explaining that the decision had been made at the ICC level long before the tournament began. He clarified that India has played on different pitches at the venue.
On a lighter note, Shukla expressed his appreciation for Lahore’s famous culinary scene, particularly the city’s food streets. Recalling his visit to Lahore’s Gawalmandi Food Street during the Indian cricket team’s 2006 tour, he noted that the food streets have become even more vibrant and attractive over the years.
He further remarked that food, faces, and language remain common cultural elements on both sides of the border.
Additionally, Shukla mentioned that PCB has organized a ‘Night Tour’ of the Lahore Fort for the visiting heads of member boards and ICC officials, providing them with an opportunity to explore more of the city.
