The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has shown support to the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) after they decided to cancel the upcoming tri-series with Pakistan. Earlier today, in a deadly attack in the Paktika province of Afghanistan, eight people were killed, three of whom were domestic cricketers.
BCCI stands with ACB
Afghan officials termed the attack a “cowardly attack carried out by the Pakistani regime.” ACB took note and cancelled the tri-series, which was scheduled to be played in Pakistan from November 17 onwards. BCCI, which is an ally of ACB, mourned the tragic loss of life and has stood in support with them.
The BCCI has played a role in helping Afghan cricket. They allowed ACB to use Greater Noida, Lucknow, and Dehradun as their home base during tumultuous times. In fact, India hosted Afghanistan for their first-ever Test match in 2018. This act of solidarity further proves how strong the friendship between the two cricket boards is.
“The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) expresses its deep sorrow and condolences on the tragic loss of three young Afghan cricketers – Kabeer Agha, Sibghatullah, and Haroon – who lost their lives in the cowardly cross-border airstrikes in Paktika province.
The BCCI stands in solidarity with the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB), the cricket fraternity, and the families of the departed players during this moment of profound grief and condemns this ghastly and unwarranted attack. The loss of innocent lives, particularly those of promising sportspersons, is deeply distressing and a matter of great concern. The BCCI conveys its heartfelt sympathies to the people of Afghanistan and shares in their pain and loss,” BCCI wrote.
ACB and BCCI against PCB?
There’s no hiding the fact that BCCI and PCB don’t see eye to eye. It isn’t just about the two boards but the nations themselves. Now, Afghanistan and Pakistan’s relationship has turned sour as well.
Although BCCI and ACB already have a strong base of friendship, this could bring them even closer. The wording that BCCI used in their statement clearly highlights that they aren’t just showing support to ACB but also taking a shot at PCB.
The whole Asia Cup debacle further exacerbates the already existing problem, and with ACB by their side, BCCI would like to pin PCB into submission.
