The heat between India and Pakistan isn’t just limited to the borders — it’s spilt right onto the cricket pitch. And now, with Gautam Gambhir stepping into the conversation, things have become even more intense.
Speaking at a private event on Tuesday, the newly-appointed head coach of India’s men’s cricket team called for a complete suspension of cricketing ties with Pakistan, not just in India, but across all neutral venues as well.
Yep, you read that right. No India vs Pakistan — anywhere.
Gautam Gambhir Gets Straight to the Point
We know Gambhir doesn’t sugarcoat things, and this time was no different. When asked whether India should continue facing Pakistan on neutral grounds (say, in ICC tournaments or the Asia Cup), his answer was blunt:
“Absolutely no. Till all this doesn’t stop, there should not be anything between India and Pakistan.”
Read More: PCB Clears The Air On PSL 10 Amid India-Pakistan Tensions
He made it clear that while it’s his personal opinion, the final call is not his to make. That responsibility lies with the BCCI and, more importantly, the Indian government.
“This is not up to me, it’s not in my jurisdiction,” he said. “Whatever decision they make, we should be absolutely fine with it and not politicise it.”
Echoes of Gavaskar’s Warning
Interestingly, Gambhir’s comments come just days after Sunil Gavaskar expressed his own skepticism regarding Pakistan’s participation in the upcoming Men’s Asia Cup, jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
Gavaskar didn’t mince words either. He emphasised that the BCCI moves according to the Indian government’s directives, and given the current political situation, he didn’t see Pakistan showing up for the Asia Cup.
“If things haven’t changed, I can’t see Pakistan now being part of the Asia Cup,” Gavaskar remarked.
Read More: Sunil Gavaskar’s Controversial Comments Spark Backlash from Pakistani Legends
The Bigger Question: Is Cricket the Casualty of Politics?
Let’s be honest — India vs Pakistan is more than just a cricket match; it’s a spectacle. It’s emotion. It’s history. And yes, it’s one of the most-watched rivalries in the world.
But when politics takes the front seat, the game suffers. Fans suffer. And the dream of using sport as a bridge between nations starts to crumble.
Of course, national security comes first — no doubt about it. But the question remains: Should cricket always be the first to get cut off when relations sour?
And more importantly, is there any room left for diplomacy through sport?
With the Asia Cup around the corner and the Champions Trophy 2025 reportedly being hosted by Pakistan, the elephant in the room just keeps growing.
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