Image Credit: BCCI
Gambhir Urges Full Cricket Boycott of Pakistan
In a strong and uncompromising statement, former cricketer and current India head coach Gautam Gambhir has asserted that India should sever all cricketing ties with Pakistan, including matches at neutral venues. The comment follows the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 civilian lives and reignited the debate over sporting engagement with Pakistan.
Gambhir’s Unyielding Stand on Pakistan
Speaking candidly, Gambhir stated, “India should not play Pakistan at all, even at a neutral venue. Be it a World Cup or any other tournament. The lives of our citizens and soldiers are more important than a cricket match.” This marks one of the most direct and unequivocal calls for a complete boycott of Pakistan in the cricketing world.
He further emphasized that cricket cannot exist in a vacuum, separate from the ground realities of national security and public sentiment. According to Gambhir, playing against Pakistan under the current circumstances would signal a dangerous normalization of relations despite ongoing acts of terror.
Political Echoes and BCCI’s Past Position
Gambhir’s statement has stirred political and public discourse, especially given his dual identity as a former BJP MP and a prominent figure in Indian cricket. His comments are consistent with the longstanding position of the Indian government and the BCCI, which has avoided bilateral cricket with Pakistan since 2012 due to deteriorating diplomatic relations.
While ICC events like the World Cup often force India and Pakistan into the same fixtures due to tournament structures, Gambhir insisted that even these should be reconsidered. “We need to take a stand and send a clear message — national interest comes first.”
Future of India-Pakistan Cricket at Crossroads
Gambhir’s comments bring into focus the broader question of whether India should continue participating in any format of cricket with Pakistan until there is accountability for cross-border terrorism. The statement comes amid a nationwide mood of anger and mourning, with several civil society groups and former military officials echoing similar calls for a total sports and cultural boycott.
This position may have direct implications on upcoming multi-nation events, including the ICC Champions Trophy scheduled to be hosted by Pakistan. If Gambhir’s view gains traction within the BCCI and the government, India could push for venue changes or even consider withdrawing from tournaments that mandate playing Pakistan.
For now, Gambhir has once again placed cricket in the larger arena of national conscience — urging the sport to align with the values and sacrifices of the country it represents.
