"sports should not be mixed with politics."
The Foreign Ministry of Pakistan has confirmed that the country’s cricket team will be travelling to India to take part in the ICC World Cup 2023.
The settlement comes after months of uncertainty as both India and Pakistan have only played in World Cups and neutral venues since 2013 because of political tensions.
The Foreign Ministry of Pakistan highlighted that sports and politics should not be mixed together.
It was stated: “Pakistan has consistently maintained that sports should not be mixed with politics.
“It has therefore decided to send its Cricket Team to India to participate in the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.”
It was further stated that this decision showed maturity from Pakistan in its firm belief that political differences should not interfere with sports commitments.
The statement continued: “Pakistan believes that the state of bilateral relations with India should not stand in the way of fulfilling its international sports-related obligations.
“Pakistan’s decision shows its constructive and responsible approach vis-a-vis India’s intransigent attitude, as the latter had refused to send its cricket team to Pakistan for the Asia Cup.”
India had stated they would not travel to Pakistan for the upcoming Asia Cup.
As a result, the tournament was forced to also take place in Sri Lanka, where India will play their games.
The statement also touched on the subject of security and announced the Pakistan government would be in talks with the ICC and Indian authorities to discuss the matter.
“Pakistan, however, has deep concerns about the security of its Cricket Team.
“We are conveying these concerns to the International Cricket Council and the Indian authorities.
“We expect that the full safety and security of the Pakistan Cricket Team will be ensured during its visit to India.”
Shortly after the announcement was made, the sentiment was shared by cricket fans on Instagram.
One fan advised: “I believe that you guys should send some prior delegation to ensure the security of the Pakistan Cricket Team.”
Pakistan’s government permitted its team’s participation in the 2023 ICC World Cup, which gets underway on October 5.
Pakistan’s first game will be against the Netherlands on October 6.
The highly anticipated match between Pakistan and India is scheduled to be played on October 15 at the Narendra Modi Stadium, which is situated in Ahmedabad.
However, the statement did not confirm whether Pakistan is content to play India in Ahmedabad as planned or whether they will ask for a change of venue.
Loading ...