India and Pakistan have experienced strained political relations since their independence, with both countries having engaged in multiple wars.
The political tension between the neighboring countries has also had a significant impact on sports, as they participate very little in bilateral games across any sport.
In cricket, the two arch-rivals have not played any bilateral series since 2012-13, when the Men in Green visited India for a white-ball series.
They now only face each other in ICC events and the Asia Cup, with their last meeting taking place at the Dubai Cricket Stadium during the Champions Trophy.
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Meanwhile, sporting ties between the two countries have been further strained by the recent attack on tourists in Pahalgam, in Indian-occupied Kashmir.
Following the attack, reports went viral on social media claiming that the BCCI had urged the ICC to place Pakistan and India in separate groups in the future.
However, the cricket authority in India clarified the statement and said that the cricket board had no intention of making such a move, either now or in the future.
After the attack, India also recalled the broadcasting crew working on the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10, further threatening the future of franchise cricket.
It has also been reported in the media that Pakistan’s participation in the upcoming Asia Cup hockey tournament, scheduled to be held in India, is in doubt.
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Media reports suggest that the Men in Green may miss the marquee event, as India has taken a stern diplomatic step by revoking all visas issued to Pakistani nationals.
The eight-nation event, scheduled for August-September, will also serve as a qualifier for the 2026 Hockey World Cup, co-hosted by Belgium and Amstelveen.
Responding to this, PHF General Secretary Rana Mujahid said that they have good relations with Hockey India, but the rest depends on the governments of India and Pakistan.
Hockey India General Secretary Bhola Nath Singh has also issued a similar statement, saying they have yet to decide and will wait for approval from the government.
