Lahore: Vice President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Rajeev Shukla, stated that the Indian team did not come to Pakistan as the government did not grant permission. Speaking at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, Shukla expressed his pleasure at visiting Pakistan and attended a match while enjoying tea.
During a media interaction, Shukla reiterated that the Indian team’s visit was restricted due to the government’s disapproval. He highlighted the effectiveness of the hybrid model, which allows matches between the two nations despite political restrictions.
He further clarified that until BCCI receives official approval, bilateral cricket between India and Pakistan cannot take place. Acknowledging Pakistan’s hosting of the ICC Champions Trophy, Shukla confirmed that the tournament’s final arrangements had already been decided.
Shukla also emphasized that India’s matches will be played in Dubai and asserted that the Indian team relies on performance rather than pitch conditions. He welcomed the return of an ICC event to Pakistan after a long time, commending the tournament’s organization.
Meanwhile, key officials from South Africa, New Zealand, India, Bangladesh, and Zimbabwe’s cricket boards, along with International Hockey Federation President Tayyab Ikram, attended the second semi-final of the Champions Trophy at Gaddafi Stadium. They were invited by the ICC and PCB. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi extended a warm welcome to all cricket board officials.
During the meeting, Rajeev Shukla, Bangladesh Cricket Board President Farooq Ahmed, Cricket South Africa CEO Pholetsi Moseki, Vice President Dr. Mohammad Mousaji, and New Zealand Cricket Director Roger Twose, among others, met with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and watched the match together.
The visiting officials appreciated Pakistan’s excellent hospitality and praised the Champions Trophy arrangements. Speaking to the media, Tayyab Ikram noted that both cricket and hockey are integral to Pakistan’s culture. He expressed happiness at visiting Lahore and emphasized the need for new programs to elevate both sports. He also expressed a desire to establish the world’s largest hockey stadium in Lahore.
