India-Pakistan Bilateral Cricket Series Remain Unlikely Amid Government Guidance
India and Pakistan are unlikely to engage in a bilateral cricket series in the near future, as confirmed by BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla. The Board of Control for Cricket in India will adhere strictly to the directives of the Indian government regarding cricketing ties with its arch-rival.
Government Policy Dictates Cricket Relations
In a recent statement to news agency ANI, Shukla emphasized that the BCCI's policy is aligned with governmental guidance. "In these circumstances, our stated policy is that we will do whatever the Indian government tells us to do in this matter," he stated. He further noted that the International Cricket Council (ICC) supports this approach, where cricket boards follow their respective governments' stances on international engagements.
"Similarly, in this case as well, whatever the government says will be followed. I don't think it's possible to have bilateral tours in the current situation," Shukla added, highlighting the persistent diplomatic and security challenges.
Historical Context and Recent Developments
The last bilateral series between India and Pakistan occurred in the 2012-13 season, when Pakistan visited India for:
- Three One-Day Internationals (ODIs), which Pakistan won 2-1
- Two Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), resulting in a draw
Since then, no bilateral tours have taken place. Shukla explained that India follows a policy of playing on "third soil"—meaning matches are held either in India or in neutral venues abroad, but not in Pakistan. "The stand of the Indian government has been there all the time in the past. I think that is absolutely fine. That's why I find bilateral tours difficult," he remarked.
Tensions escalated following India's Operation Sindoor in May 2025, leading to the ICC adopting a hybrid model. This arrangement allowed Pakistan to host the 2025 Champions Trophy while India played its matches in the United Arab Emirates. Similarly, Pakistan hosted matches for the 2025 Women's ODI World Cup in Sri Lanka, with India serving as a co-host for the tournament.
Security Concerns and Future Outlook
Shukla also pointed to significant security concerns in Pakistan, recalling the 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore. "Where did this start? When the Sri Lankan team was attacked there, they had to run away. So even the government there cannot confidently say that they will give security properly," he asserted, underscoring the risks involved.
The BCCI's stance reflects a cautious approach, prioritizing safety and governmental directives over resuming bilateral cricketing relations. As geopolitical dynamics continue to evolve, the prospect of India-Pakistan cricket series remains uncertain, with both boards likely to maintain their current positions in the foreseeable future.
