ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has firmly rejected the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) recent statement alleging that several Afghan cricketers were killed in an airstrike while returning from a friendly match, terming the claim “baseless, unverified, and politically motivated.”
In a sharp response issued on Sunday, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar criticized the ICC for spreading unconfirmed reports that could “damage the integrity of international cricket.” He emphasized that no independent verification had been carried out before the global body made its assertion.
“The ICC’s claim lacks credibility and represents a troubling attempt to mix politics with sports,” Tarar stated on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, adding that such actions “erode public confidence in the fairness of the game.”
Pakistan also voiced concern over what it described as a “pattern of bias” within the ICC, calling for internal reforms to ensure neutrality and transparency. The minister particularly criticized ICC Chairman Jay Shah for publicly endorsing the claim without evidence, saying it “exposes a clear political agenda.”
Islamabad accused both the Afghan Cricket Board (ACB) and the ICC of spreading misinformation, asserting that “no verified reports or credible sources” confirm the alleged airstrike or the deaths of any Afghan players. Officials warned that this “deliberate narrative-building” risked turning cricket into a platform for political propaganda.
The government further noted that the ICC’s handling of the issue follows a series of incidents reflecting “institutional prejudice” against Pakistan, referencing the recent “handshake controversy” involving Pakistani players.
In its concluding remarks, Pakistan urged the ICC to uphold its neutrality and focus on the spirit of the game rather than engaging in politically charged statements.
“Cricket must remain above politics,” Tarar stressed. “The ICC should restore its impartiality, treat all member nations equally, and avoid being drawn into narratives that undermine the sport’s global reputation.”
