Shukla ruled out the idea of a neutral venue for a Pakistan-India series
06 March, 2025
PHOTO: AP
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Vice-President Rajeev Shukla has addressed the possibility of a bilateral series between Pakistan and India, stating that the final decision lies with the Indian government.
Shukla, along with other cricket board officials, was in Pakistan on the invitation of PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi to witness the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final between New Zealand and South Africa at Gaddafi Stadium.
Speaking to the media during his visit, Shukla ruled out the idea of a neutral venue for a Pakistan-India series, emphasizing the long-standing policy of both cricket boards.
“It’s true that fans want to see this contest. However, as a matter of policy, both the BCCI and PCB have always preferred hosting bilateral series on home soil. We have maintained this stance, and let’s see what happens in the future,” Shukla said.
He also dismissed claims that India would have an advantage in the Champions Trophy 2025 by playing all their matches in Dubai. According to Shukla, the decision to schedule India's games in Dubai was made by the ICC a long time ago.
“There is no question of fairness or unfairness. The Indian team is not dependent on specific wickets. Even in Dubai, they play on different pitches and adapt accordingly,” he stated.
Shukla also commended the PCB for successfully organizing the Champions Trophy and praised the recent renovations at Gaddafi Stadium, which were completed in a record 117 days ahead of the tournament.
