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India vs Pakistan: Is Any Cricket Match Between Them Possible Now?

India vs Pakistan cricket matches may not happen anytime soon due to political tension, military conflict, and public sentiment. Even neutral venue games are now at risk.

Published on: 12 May 2025 10:38 AM IST

India vs Pakistan

The political and military tension between India and Pakistan is once again rising. After recent attacks and counter-attacks across the border, people are wondering: Will India and Pakistan play cricket against each other again?

Right now, the chances of a match between these two teams look very low. Let’s understand why.

No Bilateral Matches Since 2013

India and Pakistan have not played any bilateral cricket series since 2013. The last time the two teams played each other outside ICC tournaments was more than a decade ago.

Since then, political relations between both countries have been tense. Due to this, India and Pakistan only play each other in ICC (like World Cup, T20 World Cup) and ACC (like Asia Cup) events.

Fresh War Makes Situation Worse

After a deadly attack in Kashmir, India responded with missile strikes on nine locations in Pakistan. In return, Pakistan launched a counter-attack.

This sudden military conflict has made the relationship even more difficult. In this situation, cricket seems like a faraway dream.

In history too, India and Pakistan did not play cricket during war times, like during the 1965 Indo-Pak war and the 1971 war.

Even Neutral Venues Now in Danger

Earlier, when relations were bad, India refused to play in Pakistan. But matches were still possible at neutral venues like Dubai or Sri Lanka. This arrangement was called a hybrid model.

But now, because of the war, even these neutral venue matches are uncertain. Many experts believe that no form of cricket is possible right now between the two nations.

Gautam Gambhir Says No To Any Match

India’s new head coach Gautam Gambhir has clearly said that India should not play Pakistan—not even at a neutral venue.

At a public event in Delhi, he said, “Absolutely not. Nothing should happen until the terror attacks stop.”

This shows how serious the situation is. Gambhir’s views are strong and supported by many people in India.

Government Stand: National Security First

The Indian government has also taken a strong stand. It has not allowed Indian players to travel to Pakistan for tournaments.

Now that a war-like situation is going on, the government is expected to become even stricter.

Cricket is not just a game anymore—it is seen as a part of national pride and diplomacy. So, no match will be allowed if it affects security or emotions of the people.

Pakistan May Boycott India in Response

In December 2024, the PCB (Pakistan Cricket Board) had warned that if India does not come to Pakistan, Pakistan will not come to India either.

That could affect many big events:

2025 Women’s World Cup
2026 T20 World Cup

Both tournaments are scheduled to be held in India. If Pakistan pulls out, the events may be affected badly.

India Blocks Pakistani Cricketers’ Social Media

After the Pahalgam terrorist attack on April 22 that killed 26 people, India blocked the social media accounts of famous Pakistani cricketers like:

Babar Azam
Wasim Akram
Shoaib Akhtar

This move shows how serious the issue is. It's no longer just about cricket—it’s about national security and emotions.

What Experts Say: Gavaskar vs Miandad

Former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar said that Pakistan may not play in the Asia Cup this year. He even said that the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) might break up if things don’t improve.

On the other hand, Pakistani legend Javed Miandad disagreed and said cricket should continue. But most people believe Gavaskar is right—the situation is too dangerous for cricket diplomacy.

Public Sentiment Supports Tough Stand

In both India and Pakistan, the general public supports their governments and the military actions. There is anger, pain, and pride among people.

In such an emotional environment, it is very hard to imagine sports bringing peace. Right now, the public is not ready to see players from both sides shaking hands on a cricket field.

Conclusion: Cricket Must Wait for Peace

Right now, the answer to whether India and Pakistan can play cricket is “No”. Not until:

The war stops
Terror attacks stop
Political relations improve

Even matches in Dubai or Sri Lanka are not possible in such conditions. Fans will have to wait for peace, if they wish to see both teams clash again—not just as rivals, but as part of a game played with sportsmanship.

Until then, cricket between India and Pakistan is on hold.