‘Terrorism Cannot Be Tolerated’: Sourav Ganguly Calls for Cutting Cricket Ties with Pakistan

Ex-India skipper Sourav Ganguly has once again brought up the topic of India Pakistan cricket relations. After the Pahalgam terror attack, Ganguly demanded severing all cricketing relations with Pakistan saying ‘Terrorism Cannot Be Tolerated’. On Tuesday, at least 26 individuals were killed in a heinous terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Sourav Ganguly’s statement followed Indian cricketer Shreevats Goswami suggesting the same.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) reaffirmed it would adhere to the foreign policy of the Indian government. The board also quashed reports it had requested that the ICC segregate India and Pakistan in coming tournaments. However, Sourav Ganguly remains adamant more action is necessary.

“Terrorism Cannot Be Tolerated,” Says Ganguly

Speaking on Friday, Sourav Ganguly delivered a clear message: India needs to stand firm. “100 per cent, this should be done,” he replied when asked whether they would cut ties. “Strict action is needed. It is no joke that such things occur every year. Terrorism cannot be accepted.”

#PahalgamTerroristAttack | Kolkata, West Bengal: Former Indian cricket team captain Sourav Ganguly says, “100 per cent, this (breaking ties with Pakistan) should be done. Strict action is necessary. It is no joke that such things happen every year. Terrorism cannot be tolerated.” pic.twitter.com/J4v4HX3TZJ

— ANI (@ANI) April 25, 2025

Sourav Ganguly’s remarks mirror public opinion that intensifies with each border attack. He feels sporting relations with Pakistan convey the wrong message at such times.

BCCI Stands Firm, Treads Government Line

The BCCI so far has not made independent steps. Officials confirmed that they would adhere to the central government’s directive. There has been no bilateral series between India and Pakistan since 2012. They have only competed against each other in international tournaments under ICC or ACC.

Additionally, BCCI vehemently denied requesting the ICC to keep India and Pakistan in different groups. The board explained that it has not made any such segregation requests prior to future ICC events.

Symbolic or Strategic Step?

Sourav Ganguly’s observation lends credence to the expanding chorus against playing Pakistan on the cricket pitch. Critics say that sports and politics must be kept apart. Nonetheless, in India’s context, cricket is something more than sport—it is national sentiment.

The break would perhaps not end terror. But Ganguly, Goswami, and countless other citizens believe that it would drive home a telling point: sporting diplomacy can always take a second seat to national security.

India Pakistan Cricket

With elections and diplomatic pressure increasing, the impulse to shun Pakistan in international arenas—including cricket—will gain strength. Ganguly’s aggressive statement lends moral force to that cause.

At present, BCCI will await the call of the government. But the intensifying public and political pressure might soon compel an unequivocal ruling on the future of India Pakistan cricket relations.