India has once again declined to engage with Pakistan in sports, this time blocking its kabaddi team’s request to travel for upcoming matches in Pakistan, sources informed media on Thursday.
This follows the Indian government’s earlier refusal to allow the Indian cricket team to participate in matches scheduled in Pakistan.
The two nations had planned kabaddi matches next week in Kartarpur, with subsequent fixtures in Lahore and Bahawalpur.
However, this development marks another significant setback in sporting relations, following India’s decision to withdraw from next year’s Champions Trophy in Pakistan.
The Pakistan Kabaddi Federation has been officially notified of India’s stance, adding to the growing list of sporting cancellations between the countries.
India’s refusal also follows the cricketing dispute over the Champions Trophy, where the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) rejected participation in the tournament, leaving its future in doubt.
Pakistan had rejected a hybrid model for India’s participation in the Champions Trophy, which would have seen India play its matches at neutral venues, such as the UAE.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has since asked the International Cricket Council (ICC) to address India’s refusal, insisting that Pakistan’s position be respected.
This ongoing tension raises the possibility of Pakistan boycotting future ICC events in India, citing the political interference in sports.
If this move is implemented, it could have significant financial consequences for global cricket, as matches between India and Pakistan are key to television ratings and sponsorship deals.
India has not played an international match in Pakistan since 2008, and recent events, including India’s withdrawal from the Asia Cup, have only worsened relations.
Although Pakistan visited India for the 2023 World Cup, the absence of India-Pakistan games continues to strain both nations’ cricketing ties.