ODI World Cup 2023: Why are fans calling for the boycott of IND vs PAK match? Details inside

Table of Contents

  • The diplomatic standoff
  • BCCI extends a warm welcome to Pakistan cricketers
  • The reason behind boycott calls
  • Controversial pre-match music ceremony decision of BCCI
    • Here are some of the reactions of fans

The cricketing rivalry between India and Pakistan is legendary. The two nations have been arch-rivals on the cricket field for so long, and whenever they meet, it’s not just a game but a high-stakes battle. The thrill and tension surrounding an India-Pakistan encounter are like no other, making it one of the most anticipated fixtures in world cricket.


As the two teams now gear up to face off against each other at the ODI World Cup 2023, the environment is once again heated up with mixed emotions among fans. While many expressed excitement, many also called for a boycott of the match.

The diplomatic standoff

It’s essential to acknowledge that India and Pakistan have not played a bilateral series since 2013, and their encounters are now limited to ICC events. But the wait of the cricket enthusiasts is now over as the return of the ODI World Cup to India after 13 years promises a riveting match between these cricketing giants on Indian soil after a long gap of 13 years.

The most recent clash of the neighboring countries was at the Asia Cup 2023, where the two sides met twice, with India winning one match and the other ending in a frustrating washout due to rain.

BCCI extends a warm welcome to Pakistan cricketers

The Indian cricket management extended a warm welcome to the Pakistan cricket team upon their arrival, emphasizing the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie. However, this gracious reception hasn’t been universally accepted by some Indian citizens, who are calling for a boycott of the event.

Also READ: Waqar Younis has his say on comparison between Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar

The reason behind boycott calls

The demand for a boycott of India-Pakistan matches is not a new phenomenon in India. It has been a recurring concern for Indian citizens, fueled by the tragic loss of Indian soldiers in cross-border violations along the Indo-Pak borders.

The latest wave of calls for a boycott saw fans alleging that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is ignoring Pakistan’s involvement in terror-funded activities in the Kashmir Valley. Notably, a recent terror attack in Anantnag claimed the lives of Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Aashish Dhonchak, and Deputy Superintendent of Jammu and Kashmir Police Humayun Bhat and fuelled fury across India.

Also READ: CWC 2023: South Africa’s Aiden Markram sets a new record for the fastest century in the ODI World Cup

TAGS:- ICC CRICKET WORLD CUP 2023, ICC MEN'S CRICKET WORLD CUP 2023, ICC ODI WORLD CUP 2023, INDIA, INDIAN CRICKET TEAM, INDVPAK, ODI WORLD CUP 2023, PAKISTAN, PAKISTAN CRICKET TEAM, PAKVIND, TEAM INDIA

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