Fri Sep 12 19:21:33 UTC 2025: **The Hindu – September 13, 2025**

**Thackeray Slams BCCI Over India-Pakistan Cricket Match, Demands Boycott**

Mumbai – Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray has launched a scathing attack on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), demanding a boycott of the upcoming India-Pakistan cricket match scheduled for September 14th in the Asia Cup 2025.

Thackeray vehemently condemned the BCCI’s decision, citing the recent Pahalgam terrorist attack, which India has attributed to Pakistan. “We have told the whole world that Pakistan was behind the attack in India. And yet, we are now wanting to play with them,” he stated, accusing the BCCI of “anti-national and selfish behavior.” He questioned how cricket could proceed when fundamental resources like water relations were suspended, referencing the Indus Waters Treaty.

He further criticized the BJP, questioning whether the party’s stance on Pakistan had changed. He also questioned the motivation of the BCCI. “Why is the BCCI so excited to play a match against Pakistan? Is this for TV revenue? For ad revenue?” Thackeray stated, drawing a comparison to Pakistan’s boycott of the Men’s Hockey Asia Cup hosted by India.

Thackeray didn’t spare the players either, urging them to examine their own patriotism. “Players can boycott, BCCI can boycott, broadcasters can boycott. Why aren’t they doing it? Those who are going to play need to ask how much of patriotism is alive in them,” he said.

The Shiv Sena (UBT) has announced a “Sindoor Raksha Abhiyaan” to coincide with the match, where the party’s women’s wing will stage protests. Party MP Sanjay Raut announced that sindoor will be sent to Prime Minister Narendra Modi from numerous households as a reminder of the Pahalgam attack and a symbol of the national pride he should be protecting.

Earlier, Uddhav Thackeray, chief of the Shiv Sena (UBT), criticized Prime Minister Modi for allegedly compromising national pride, suggesting the match was allowed due to Jai Shah’s position as chairman of the International Cricket Council.

The BCCI has yet to respond to Thackeray’s statements. The match is currently still scheduled to proceed as planned.

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