Desk
Share
After the devastating Pahalgam terror incident which resulted in the death of 26 Indians, former BCCI President and Indian cricketer Sourav Ganguly has called for an immediate end to India’s cricketing relations with Pakistan. His statement underscores the Indian public frustration advocating for more decisive action in light of the incessant terror attacks across the border.
Sourav Ganguly's Statement On Cutting Off Ties With Pakistan Cricket
Ganguly did not hold back when speaking to ANI in Kolkata. “100 percent, this (breaking cricket ties) should be done. Strict action is necessary. It is no joke that such things happen every year. Terrorism cannot be tolerated,” were his exact words. His statement mirrors the sentiments of millions of disillusioned Indians who feel that international sporting contests with Pakistan serve a detrimental purpose in projecting India as a strong nation, sending the wrong signal.
“It’s Time To Give A Tough Response,” Says Ganguly
Ganguly’s expressive comments portray determination to support a cause which militarily aggressive considering the liberal approach dominant in the nation’s response to Pakistani provocations. Though ambiguous, his statement makes it clear that cricket which is otherwise dubbed as a unifying occasion for India and Pakistan is not to be treated as normalize relations while terrorist operations persist ceaselessly.
Context: Pahalgam Terror Attack and Rising Tensions
The heinous act of terrorism committed in Pahalgam has once again revived discussions regarding the Indo-Pak relationship with respect to various aspects, including sports. The prevailing animosity made it easy for many, like Ganguly, to support his view to sever cricketing relations who believe that there is no need for diplomacy via cricket as long as there is so much bloodshed.
History of India-Pakistan Cricket Relations
There is perhaps no sports rivalry that evokes as much passion, as the one between India and Pakistan in cricket, but has always there has been an underlying degree of politics involved . Since 2012-13, bilateral series have been suspended, only to be replaced by an interspersed series of international tournaments, such as the World Cup or Asia Cup which are open to all nations.
India and Pakistan have not played each other except for ICC events in recent years. The last time India played a full bilateral series with Pakistan, which consisted of a limited-overs series hosted in India, was back in 2012-2013.
