BCCI denies asking ICC for India-Pakistan group separation amid security concerns
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has refuted claims that it requested the International Cricket Council (ICC) to separate India and Pakistan into different groups at future global tournaments.
Amid reports suggesting that India’s governing body had formally approached the ICC following security concerns raised after a recent terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, a BCCI official dismissed the notion. A BCCI office-bearer firmly stated it was “news to him,” indicating that no such communication had been made.
Security concerns after Pahalgam attack prompt wider conversations
While the BCCI may not have made any official request about groupings, security around Indo-Pak fixtures remains a top priority. Following the attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, the BCCI reportedly wrote to the ICC, emphasizing the need for heightened security measures for India’s matches in upcoming tournaments.
Sources suggest that the BCCI’s communication was aimed at ensuring the ICC and tournament hosts provide “a safe environment” for players and fans alike, particularly during India-Pakistan clashes. However, it stopped short of requesting any changes to tournament formats or group separations in ICC events.
India-Pakistan fixtures at global events under continued spotlight
India and Pakistan, whose cricketing ties have been largely limited to ICC and ACC (Asian Cricket Council) tournaments, continue to command massive global attention. Their matches at World Cups and Asia Cups are often the highlights of the tournaments, driving fan engagement and broadcast ratings worldwide.
Despite the political tensions, the ICC remains eager to schedule India-Pakistan clashes in marquee events, recognizing their enormous commercial value. The two teams last faced off during the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, which was successfully hosted in Pakistan and Dubai earlier this year.
Asia Cup to be held in a neutral venue
Meanwhile, a key development around the Asia Cup has emerged. Initially slated to be hosted in India, the tournament will now be conducted in a neutral country, according to the ACC. This move comes in light of the sensitive India-Pakistan cricketing dynamics and aims to ensure full participation by all teams.
The ACC is currently finalizing the host nation, with an official announcement expected shortly.
Dialogue and security central to future India-Pakistan clashes
While the BCCI has denied making any official request to the ICC regarding group separations, security remains a central focus for organizers. As preparations for upcoming marquee events continue, tournament hosts and cricket boards will prioritize providing a safe environment without disrupting the much-anticipated contests that fuel the global growth of cricket.
Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
