Imran Masood Slams Debate Over India–Pakistan Match, Says ‘Why Are We Even Thinking About It?’

Saharanpur, February 2:
The controversy surrounding Pakistan’s decision to boycott its match against India in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, to be held in India and Sri Lanka, has sparked a political reaction in India. Congress MP from Saharanpur, Imran Masood, has strongly criticised the very idea of India playing Pakistan, questioning why the issue is even being discussed.

Reacting sharply to the development, Masood said that India should never have considered playing Pakistan in the first place. He asserted that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) must take decisions keeping the nation’s dignity and self-respect in mind.

‘Why Should India Play Pakistan?’

Imran Masood said that when India had once signed a Bangladeshi player, it triggered widespread controversy, yet discussions about playing Pakistan continue.

“Why do we want to play matches with Pakistan at all? We should not compromise on the country’s honour. We have been saying this from day one,” he said.

‘No Relations, Sporting or Otherwise’

The Congress MP made it clear that he has consistently opposed sporting ties with Pakistan.

“We have always maintained that there should be no relations with Pakistan, including cricket. We should have clearly refused from the very beginning. Our stand should have been firm and unambiguous,” Masood said.

Call for Clear Stand

Masood further stated that India should have conveyed its position at the outset and avoided the present controversy altogether.

“If we make our stand clear from the start and say we will not play Pakistan, it would be better. There is no need for confusion or debate,” he added.

Background

Pakistan has reportedly decided to boycott its match against India in the upcoming T20 World Cup in protest against Bangladesh’s exclusion from the tournament. The decision has triggered political reactions and renewed debate over India–Pakistan cricketing ties.