Will India-Pakistan World Cup Matches End? Report Clears BCCI’s Stance After Pahalgam Terror Attack

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has refuted claims that it formally requested the International Cricket Council (ICC) to avoid scheduling India-Pakistan matches in the group stages of future tournaments, as reported by Cricbuzz. 

The speculation arose following the tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, which killed 26 people, mostly tourists, and heightened tensions between the two nations.

Reports earlier suggested that the BCCI, reacting to the Pahalgam attack, had urged the ICC to ensure India and Pakistan are not placed in the same group for global events like the World Cup and Champions Trophy.

However, a senior BCCI official, speaking to Cricbuzz, dismissed these claims.

"A top BCCI office-bearer also told that such a development is news to him. The BCCI authorities are sensitive to the prevailing national mood but as things stand, there is no truth to the speculation," a Cricbuzz report read.

The Pahalgam attack has also had ripple effects on other cricketing ties. FanCode, a streaming platform in India, removed all Pakistan Super League 2025 (PSL 2025) content from its website.

Also read: No Fantasy Games! Dream11 & Co Fantasy Platforms Boycott PSL 2025 Over Pahalgam Terror Attack

Pakistan Team to Play at Neutral Venues 

The India-Pakistan cricket rivalry is a cornerstone of ICC events, with matches between the two sides drawing massive viewership and revenue. The BCCI’s long-standing policy, backed by the Indian government, prohibits bilateral cricket with Pakistan. However, India still faces Pakistan in ICC events and the Asia Cup.

No major men’s ICC event is scheduled for 2025, with the next significant tournament being the T20 World Cup 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. However, the Women’s Cricket World Cup, set for September-October 2025 in India, will see Pakistan participate at a neutral venue as per prior agreements, reflecting the hybrid model used for ICC events hosted by either nation. 

Similarly, the men’s Asia Cup 2025, where India is the designated host, will be held at a neutral venue, ensuring Pakistan's matches are played outside Indian soil.

Also read: “We Will Not Play With Pakistan in Bilaterals Going Forward" – BCCI Sends Strong Message After Pahalgam Attack