Cricket Can't Heal Terror Wounds: No Cricket with Pakistan, says Azharuddin

Former Indian cricket captain Mohammad Azharuddin has called for India to completely cut its cricketing ties with Pakistan in the wake of the recent terror attacks in Pahalgam, which claimed several innocent lives. Speaking exclusively, Azharuddin said India should not only continue its long-standing refusal to engage in bilateral series with Pakistan but also withdraw from facing Pakistan in ICC and ACC tournaments.

Describing the Pahalgam incident as "very, very sad," Azharuddin emphasized the emotional toll the attack has had on the nation. "Cricket is a sport that unites, but it cannot be played in the shadow of such tragedies," he stated, underlining the need for a strong response.

While acknowledging that suspending the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) would not be practical at this stage, Azharuddin praised the Indian cricket board’s decision to honor the victims. Players wearing black armbands during matches, he noted, was a "good part" of showing solidarity with the grieving families.

Azharuddin made these remarks during his appearance as the chief guest at Mumbai’s Nanavati Hospital, where he inaugurated the new Orthopaedics, Spine, and Joint Care unit.

The former skipper’s comments add momentum to the ongoing debate over the intersection of sports and geopolitics. His firm stance reflects a growing sentiment that national security and the sentiments of citizens must take precedence over sporting engagements. With tensions between India and Pakistan remaining high, Azharuddin's call may spark further discussions about the future of cricketing diplomacy between the two nations.

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