“Not on My Bingo Card!”: US Official Surprised by Cricket Question by Pak Journo

Washington: India’s decision to not send its cricket team to Pakistan for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy has sparked heated discussions in the cricketing world, leaving the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) visibly frustrated. The PCB has firmly rejected any “hybrid model” proposal, which would involve India playing its matches in Dubai instead of Pakistan.

The controversy gained international attention when a Pakistani journalist raised the matter during a daily press briefing by the US Department of State. Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel, taken aback by the unusual cricket-related query, humorously remarked, “Cricket? Oh, I didn’t have that on my bingo card. Go ahead.”

The journalist elaborated on India’s refusal, emphasizing the significance of the Champions Trophy, considered the biggest cricket event after the World Cup. “India was set to participate, but its government has decided against sending the team to Pakistan. The Indian team last toured Pakistan in 2008, but political tensions have prevented any visits since. Do you think politics should be mixed with sports?”

Patel tactfully avoided taking sides, underscoring that the matter is strictly bilateral. “Relations between India and Pakistan, whether through sports or other avenues, are for them to address. It’s not something the United States will intervene in. However, sports undeniably have the potential to unite people and foster a sense of community,” he said.

India and Pakistan’s cricketing ties remain at an impasse, with political differences continuing to overshadow sporting events, fueling intense debates in both countries and beyond.