'Gesture of generosity': Pakistan defends decision to play cricket against India

Pakistan’s decision to play cricket matches against India has been described as a “gesture of generosity” by the government, following concerns over the politicization of the sport, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi said.

Addressing the matter, Andrabi said cricket was a game cherished by all Pakistanis and that many grew up playing it. “It is regrettable that cricket is being weaponised and politicised,” he added, emphasizing that the government’s initial decision not to play against India reflected its determination to prevent the sport from being used for political purposes.

He explained that the subsequent decision to allow the match to proceed came after the concerned cricket authorities recognized that cricket had been turned into a tool of politics, particularly in relation to Bangladesh. “The Bangladesh team and the Sri Lankan team, who were the hosts of the match, were in touch with our government and the cricket board. Our decision to play reflects the generosity shown by our Prime Minister,” Andrabi said.

He added that consultations with “brotherly countries” like Bangladesh and Sri Lanka influenced the decision, and international cricket authorities, including those in India, acknowledged that politicizing cricket is inappropriate and goes against the spirit of the game.

“Cricket is a game that we all love and hold dear, and it should remain a source of unity, not division,” the spokesperson concluded.