Following a recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Gautam Gambhir has reiterated his call for a complete boycott of Pakistan in all cricketing events. Gambhir's statement emphasizes that engaging in sports or entertainment with Pakistan should not take precedence over national security and the lives of Indian citizens.
Gambhir made his remarks at an ABP event, stating firmly that India should not engage in any cricket with Pakistan until cross-border terrorism ceases. This includes matches in multi-team events like the Asia Cup and ICC tournaments. He stressed that the decision ultimately rests with the Indian government and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). He added that whatever decision they make, the public should support it and not politicize the issue.
India has not played a full bilateral series against Pakistan since 2007 due to ongoing tensions. Since then, cricketing encounters have been limited to multi-team events. However, Gambhir is advocating for a complete cessation of all cricketing ties.
Gambhir has been a vocal advocate for severing ties with Pakistan in the wake of terrorist attacks. In the past, he has stated that even the possibility of India being eliminated from a tournament should not deter the country from boycotting matches against Pakistan. He has also said that conditional boycotts are not enough to improve India-Pakistan relations.
Gambhir's stance reflects a deep-seated sentiment that the loss of human life due to terrorism outweighs any potential benefits from sports or cultural exchanges. "Matches will keep happening, movies will be made, singers will continue to perform but nothing comes close to losing a loved one in your family," Gambhir stated.