BCCI vice president Rajeev Shukla humorously addressed queries from Pakistani reporters about India’s ability to play the Champions Trophy final in Lahore, indicating that Australia’s loss forced the final to be held in Dubai. He stated that any future bilateral cricket between India and Pakistan depends on government clearance and reiterated the BCCI’s policy on hosting matches. Shukla commended Pakistan’s organization of the tournament while reflecting on the desire of fans for renewed ties.
BCCI vice president Rajeev Shukla was questioned by a Pakistani journalist regarding the Indian cricket team’s potential participation in the Champions Trophy final in Lahore. Shukla humorously remarked, “For that, Australia had to win yesterday. But since they lost, the final would have to be played in Dubai.” This statement came after India’s victory over Australia in the semi-finals, securing their place in the final while eliminating Pakistan’s chance to host.
The Indian team, led by Rohit Sharma, remains the only squad playing all matches at The Dubai International Stadium due to concerns over security in Pakistan. Shukla addressed claims that playing at one venue gives India an unfair advantage by stating that such arrangements were made at the ICC level, assigning India-centric matches to Dubai and others to Pakistan. He emphasized that India’s success arises from players’ performance rather than pitch conditions.
Regarding the future of bilateral cricket between India and Pakistan, Shukla confirmed that any resumption of matches is contingent upon approval from the Indian government. He noted, “It is very categorical and clear that it is the (Indian) government’s decision.”
Acknowledging the desire of fans for renewed cricket ties, Shukla expressed skepticism about playing at neutral venues, reaffirming BCCI’s longstanding policy that matches should be conducted on each country’s home grounds. He remarked that while many countries would eagerly offer to host India-Pakistan matches, the final decision rests with the Indian government after careful consideration of various factors.
In summary, Rajeev Shukla elaborated on the nuances surrounding India’s participation in the Champions Trophy and the broader context of cricket relations between India and Pakistan. His insights reveal the significance of government protocols in resuming bilateral cricket, as well as the strategic decisions made by the ICC regarding venue allocations. The future of matches between these two nations remains uncertain, heavily reliant on political and governmental developments.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
