India-Pakistan cricket series: BCCI waiting for government’s response, says Rajiv Shukla
While the Pakistan Cricket Board has already got the clearance from its government, India is still waiting to get the government's nod
New Delhi: Senior Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) functionary and IPL chairman Rajiv Shukla on Saturday said the cricket board is awaiting the government’s response on the resumption of cricket ties between India and Pakistan.
BCCI is awaiting response from the Indian government on the fate of a much-talked-about series planned for next month. While the Pakistan Cricket Board has already got the clearance from its government, India is still waiting to get the government’s nod.
“We have already applied with the ministry of external affairs. But since (external affairs minister) Sushma Swaraj ji is in Malta to attend the Commonwealth Summit, we are waiting for her to come back. The moment she comes back, she will decide about it," Shukla told a news channel.
“The two boards (PCB and BCCI) have already taken the decision. Now it is up to the Indian government to decide. We are waiting for the government’s nod," he added.
Shukla said sports should be kept separate from political and diplomatic controversies. “Sports should not be dragged into political and diplomatic controversies. We cannot decide on the series with Pakistan without the consent of the government. That is why we have written to the government," said Shukla.
Sri Lanka has emerged as the neutral venue for the series, which is likely to have three ODIs and two T20s, tentatively scheduled between 18 December and first week of January. Both countries have not played Test cricket since 2007 but Pakistan toured India in the winter of 2012-13 for a short limited-over series. PTI
Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed – it's all here, just a click away! Login Now!