In the aftermath of the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir that left over 28 civilians dead and several others injured, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reaffirmed its longstanding policy of not engaging in bilateral cricket with Pakistan — this time. While India and Pakistan’s women’s teams have never played a bilateral series before, the BCCI made it clear that such a series will not take place now or in the foreseeable future.
In a strong statement following the Pahalgam incident, BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla confirmed that India will not entertain any prospects of bilateral cricket with Pakistan. His remarks come at a time when political tensions have yet again bled into the realm of international sport, reinforcing a clear message of national solidarity and policy alignment.
“We are with the victims, and we condemn it. Whatever our government will say, we will do. We don’t play with Pakistan in bilateral series because of the government’s stand. And we will not play with Pakistan in bilaterals going forward. But when it comes to ICC events, we play due to ICC engagement. ICC is also aware whatever is happening they will do it.”
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia echoed Shukla’s sentiments while expressing grief over the lives lost. His words captured the somber mood within the cricketing community and reiterated the board’s commitment to standing with the nation in times of tragedy.
“The cricketing community is deeply shocked and anguished by the tragic loss of innocent lives in the gruesome terror attack at Pahalgam yesterday. On behalf of the BCCI, while condemning this ghastly and cowardly act with strongest possible words, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayers for the departed souls. In sharing their pain and grief, we stand hand in hand at this hour of tragedy.”
The gravity of the moment was honored during IPL 2025 match no. 41 between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Mumbai Indians. The BCCI orchestrated a subdued atmosphere at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium — no cheerleaders, no music, no fireworks, and no DJ — ensuring the game was played with the dignity the occasion demanded. Players also wore black armbands and observed a minute’s silence.
India and Pakistan have only ever faced each other in women’s cricket during ICC events, and that limited interaction is set to follow a new structure. After India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025, a hybrid model was adopted — ensuring that neither side travels across borders. This model will be repeated for the upcoming ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, scheduled for September–October in India. Matches involving India and Pakistan will be held at neutral venues, keeping diplomatic sensitivities in check.
Unlike in the men’s game, India and Pakistan’s women’s teams have never squared off in a bilateral series. Pakistan’s last visit to India came during the 2016 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. India’s women last toured Pakistan in 2005-06, for the Asia Cup, but never since. Given the recent tragedy in Kashmir and the board’s reinforced stance, a bilateral women’s series is off the table indefinitely.
On the rare occasions that India and Pakistan have met on the field in women’s cricket, India has dominated comprehensively. In ODIs, India boasts an unblemished record of 11 wins to Pakistan’s zero. In the T20 format, India leads 13-3 over 16 encounters. No Test matches have ever been played between the two nations’ women’s teams.
With this firm reiteration of policy, the BCCI has drawn a definitive line: Indian women’s cricket will not step onto the field with Pakistan outside of ICC frameworks, and certainly not in a bilateral setup. The Pahalgam attack, reportedly carried out by TRF militants including Pakistani nationals, has only deepened the resolve.
Loves all things female cricket