India’s national team head coach Gautam Gambhir has asserted a strong stand against any cricketing relationship with Pakistan following the recent Pahalgam terror attack, where 26 civilians lost their lives. During an ABP function in Delhi, Gambhir firmly stated that India must not play against Pakistan, even at a neutral location, until terrorism is completely eradicated.
Gautam Gambhir Comments on India-Pakistan clash
Advertisement
“My response to this is categorically no. There should be no cricket, no films, and no bilateral or multilateral engagements until terrorism stops,” Gambhir said.
Consequences of the Pahalgam Terror Attack
The April 22 Pahalgam attack led India to take several diplomatic and strategic measures. These were:
Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty
Closing of the Attari border crossing
Downgrading of diplomatic relations with Pakistan
This backdrop motivated Gambhir to hold strong to his resolve of stopping cricketing activities between the two countries.
India vs Pakistan: Cricket History and Future Encounters
Advertisement
India hasn’t engaged in a bilateral series against Pakistan since January 2013. Both countries have only competed against each other in multi-nation tournaments like the Asia Cup and ICC events. Their recent encounter was during the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy in Dubai. Their future encounters could potentially be the Women’s ODI World Cup, Men’s Asia Cup 2025, and Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
Though Gambhir laid stress on the fact that such matches are secondary vis-a-vis national security.
There is no cricket match, movie, or concert more precious than the life of an Indian citizen or soldier, he further stated.
Ultimate Decision Rests with Government and BCCI
Though Gambhir expressed his individual opinion, he also agreed with the fact that the ultimate decision lies in the hands of the BCCI as well as the Indian government.
It’s not my jurisdiction. It’s for the BCCI and the government. Whatever they do, we have to accept and not politicize it,” he clarified.
On Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and the England Tour
Changing tracks from political issues to team choice, Gambhir was clear that a coach doesn’t choose the team, but only the playing XI for the match.
“The selectors choose the team. If Rohit and Virat are performing, age should not be a barrier—they can play till 45 if they’re delivering results,” he said, addressing concerns ahead of the five-Test tour of England in June.
Both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli had lean phases during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, but played pivotal roles in India’s Champions Trophy victory earlier in 2025.
Related Topic: Mumbai Indians vs Gujarat Titans
As national cricket politics overwhelm headlines, supporters are also waiting with bated breath for the big-ticket encounter between Mumbai Indians vs Gujarat Titans, a flagship contest in the IPL that continues to attract huge audiences. As controversies rage over international cricketing relations, the Indian Premier League offers exciting domestic competition to keep cricket fans entertained.
ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: Big Update In India’s Squad For 5-Test Series
Advertisement