WEB DESK: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) expressed its delight over the announcement of the much-anticipated Pakistan–India clash in the T20 World Cup, marking a significant moment for cricket fans worldwide.
BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla hailed the successful negotiations leading to the Pakistan-India match as a remarkable achievement. He extended his gratitude to the International Cricket Council (ICC) for its instrumental role in convincing Pakistan to participate in the contest.
Addressing the media in Delhi, Shukla described the outcome of discussions between the ICC, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), and the Bangladesh Cricket Board as a constructive and promising step forward for the sport. He noted that ICC officials, under the guidance of their chairman, had undertaken a visit to Lahore to engage in detailed talks with PCB and Bangladesh Cricket Board representatives.
Shukla emphasized that these discussions aimed to resolve disagreements by prioritizing the spirit of cricket. He expressed satisfaction with the collaborative resolution, emphasizing the shared commitment among all parties to reach a mutually agreeable solution.
The ICC’s success in addressing concerns and fostering cooperation was labeled a major accomplishment by Shukla. He confirmed that the high-stakes match, originally scheduled for 15 February in Colombo, will proceed as planned with Pakistan’s participation. This development, he added, is exciting news for cricket enthusiasts.
Additionally, Shukla highlighted that key concerns previously raised by the Bangladesh Cricket Board were largely addressed during the discussions. The board reportedly acknowledged and appreciated the ICC’s efforts to mediate and resolve issues effectively.
In reflecting on these developments, Shukla remarked that the agreement not only benefits all stakeholders but also sets the stage for a smooth T20 World Cup. He celebrated this resolution as a victory for everyone involved and a moment where cricket itself takes center stage as the ultimate winner.
In related news, it was noted that the Pakistani government has granted official approval for its national cricket team to face India on 15 February.
