Aaditya Thackeray Criticizes BCCI Over Pak Matches Amid Tensions

Mumbai, Aug 15 (PTI) — Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray, on Friday, criticized the BCCI's decision regarding cricket matches against Pakistan in the upcoming Asia Cup. After considerable efforts by the Union government to highlight Islamabad's role in the Pahalgham attack, Thackeray expressed disappointment, stating, "The cricket board's financial ambitions overshadow the sacrifice of our armed forces." He suggested that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) seems to place itself above the sentiments expressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his Independence Day speech from the Red Fort.

"Despite our nation's efforts to associate Pakistan with the Pahalgham attack, the BCCI's quest for revenue seemingly supersedes the sacrifices of our Armed Forces and even the Prime Minister's assertion that 'blood and water cannot flow together,'" Thackeray remarked. He further critiqued the BCCI's position, stating, "With the influence they hold within the ICC (International Cricket Council), it is ironic to claim they are constrained by rules governing the Asia Cup."

The much-anticipated India-Pakistan matches are scheduled to occur in Dubai during the Asia Cup, which kicks off in the UAE on September 9. The teams are set to clash on September 14 in Dubai and potentially face each other again on September 21 at the same venue. The final match of the tournament will also be hosted in Dubai on September 29. Notably, the tournament will feature the T20I format in preparation for the T20 World Cup scheduled in India and Sri Lanka early next year.

In a decisive statement from the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a stern warning to Pakistan. He declared that terrorists and their protectors would face retaliation from the Indian armed forces, signaling a "crushing" response to any future threats.

During his address on India's 79th Independence Day, Modi referenced Operation Sindoor, illustrating how the Indian military dealt with adversaries in an unprecedented manner. Modi emphasized that India will no longer tolerate Pakistan's "nuclear blackmail" and assured an appropriate response to any provocations from Islamabad.

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