Mumbai, Aug.23,2025:In his letter, Sanjay Raut asked: “Will blood and cricket flow together?” He highlighted that despite “Operation Sindoor” still being unfinished
India-Pakistan Cricket Objection
The India-Pakistan Cricket Objection surfaced dramatically when Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut sent a strongly worded letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in late August 2025. He protested India’s participation in the Asia Cup match scheduled against Pakistan on September 14, 2025, in Dubai.
The Letter: Will Blood and Cricket Flow Together?
In his letter, Sanjay Raut asked: “Will blood and cricket flow together?” He highlighted that despite “Operation Sindoor” still being unfinished and the wounds from the Pahalgam terror attack not healed, India agreeing to such a match is “painful and insensitive.”
He tagged PM Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and the BCCI, publicly criticizing the government for granting clearance.
Operation Sindoor and Ongoing Threats
Raut emphasized that Operation Sindoor, India’s ongoing counter-terrorism campaign, continues to pose threats—suggesting that sporting ties with Pakistan now strain credibility in India’s security stances.
Martyr Families and Emotional Costs
Citing the Pahalgam terror attack—where 26 people were killed, many leaving behind grieving families—Raut questioned whether their pain was respected. He called the match a “sprinkling of salt on fresh wounds.”
Accusations of Political and Financial Motives
Raut cast doubt on the government’s neutrality by referencing Jay Shah, son of Home Minister Amit Shah and Secretary of the BCCI. He suggested potential politically motivated or financial interests in approving the match.
Betting, Gambling, and Governance Questions
He also raised concerns about betting and online gambling, areas where India–Pakistan matches often attract massive stakes. He hinted at involvement of political figures in these networks.
Hindutva, Patriotism, and Local Opposition
Raut argued that the match not only disrespects soldiers’ sacrifices but also undermines Hindutva and patriotism. He stated that, had the match been scheduled in Maharashtra, Shiv Sena under Bal Thackeray’s legacy would have “stopped it.”
Broader Political Reactions & External Commentary
Other political leaders echoed Raut’s objections. Aaditya Thackeray condemned the BCCI’s profit focus over national sentiment, calling it a “shameful act.”
In contrast, the Samajwadi Party branded the decision as “nothing less than shameless” and urged a boycott of the match.
What Doesn’t Play Well on the Field
The India-Pakistan Cricket Objection is not just about a match—it’s a nexus of national security, emotional wounds, political accountability, public sentiment, and ethical governance. Sanjay Raut’s letter, backed by similar protest voices, challenges the optics and implications of playing cricket with Pakistan amid ongoing cross-border tensions. The objections raised probe deep into how sports intersect with patriotism, policy, and public emotion.
