Former England cricket captain Michael Atherton has called on the International Cricket Council (ICC) to reconsider scheduling Pakistan-India matches in global tournaments. He argued that these high-profile games no longer promote sportsmanship but instead reflect deep political tensions between the two nations.
Atherton referenced the Asia Cup as a recent example of how cricket is becoming a “proxy for border tension.” He said the once-celebrated rivalry has shifted from being a symbol of sports diplomacy to a politically charged event. “It’s time to end the impression that politics and economics dictate the fixture,” he stated.
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He acknowledged that the ICC may be financially motivated to continue the matchup, noting that broadcast rights for the game are worth nearly $3 billion. However, he warned that commercial interests should not override the spirit of the game. “This match keeps happening not for cricket, but for cash,” Atherton remarked.
Atherton also stressed that cricket should not serve as a vehicle for propaganda. He said the sport must return to its roots of fair competition, not political symbolism. “If the draw doesn’t bring them together naturally, then so be it,” he said, calling for transparent tournament scheduling.
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His comments add fuel to a growing debate on whether India-Pakistan matches, while financially lucrative, still have a place in international cricket amid diplomatic deadlock. The ICC has yet to respond to Atherton’s remarks, but the pressure for reform in scheduling is mounting.