Aaditya Thackeray Slams BCCI for Sending Team to Pakistan in Asia Cup 2025, Calls It Betrayal of Soldiers

Mumbai/New Delhi: Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray has launched a fierce attack on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), condemning its decision to send the Indian cricket team to play Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025. Thackeray said the move was a “betrayal of Indian soldiers” who continue to face terror attacks planned across the border.

In a letter to Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Thackeray branded the BCCI’s decision “shameless” and accused it of putting profits above national interest. “Is the BCCI above national interest? Is it above the sacrifice of our Jawans? Is it above the sindoor of those who faced the attack in Pahalgam?” he asked.

Citing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s statement that “water and blood cannot flow together,” Thackeray demanded to know why cricketing ties with Pakistan were being pursued while terrorism remained unchecked. He alleged that the BCCI was motivated by “greed for money and ad revenues,” ignoring the sentiments of millions of Indians.

“It is shameful that while Pakistan refuses to play hockey in India citing security concerns, BCCI bends over backwards to play cricket with them for selfish interests,” Thackeray said, calling it a “disgraceful and anti-national act.”

Thackeray further slammed the government for mixed signals. “We tell the world that Pakistan is behind the Pahalgam terror attack. Now will we send delegations to justify why India is playing cricket with Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025?” he asked, warning that the move undermines India’s global credibility.

Appealing for unity beyond politics, Thackeray said: “Just like we stood with the Prime Minister during Operation Sindoor, I hope we can stand together again – this time against BCCI’s betrayal of the nation.”