Pahalgam Terror Attack: Shreevats Goswami Slams Pakistan, Calls for Cricket Boycott
In the wake of a devastating terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent people, mostly tourists, former Bengal and India U-19 cricketer Shreevats Goswami has made a powerful statement, urging India to permanently sever cricketing ties with Pakistan. The horrific incident, which unfolded on Tuesday at the picturesque Baisaran meadows, marks one of the deadliest attacks on civilians in Kashmir in recent years.
Goswami, visibly shaken and furious, took to social media to express his anguish. In a heartfelt and scathing post, he wrote, ‘You don’t play cricket with Pakistan. Not now. Not ever.‘ He criticized those who advocate for separating sports from politics, questioning their stance in the face of such brutal violence. ‘Murdering innocent Indians seems to be their national sport,’ he added, calling for a response rooted in resolve, dignity, and zero tolerance rather than bats and balls.
Reflecting on his personal connection to the region, Goswami shared memories of his recent visit to Kashmir for the Legends League Cricket tournament just months ago. ‘I walked through Pahalgam, met the locals, saw hope returning to their eyes. It felt like peace had finally found its way back. And now… this bloodshed again,’ he lamented. His words resonate with a deep sense of betrayal and loss, echoing the sentiments of many across the nation who are grappling with recurring violence in the Valley.
The cricketing fraternity has rallied together in mourning and outrage. Former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh expressed his grief on social media platform X, stating, ‘Deeply saddened by the attack on tourists in Pahalgam. Praying for the victims and for the strength of their families. Let us stand united in hope and humanity.’ Indian team head coach Gautam Gambhir also condemned the attack, promising retribution. ‘Praying for the families of the deceased. Those responsible for this will pay. India will strike,’ he asserted in a post on X.
The Pahalgam attack has reignited debates over India-Pakistan cricketing relations, especially with the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to be hosted by Pakistan. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Indian government have already expressed reluctance to send the team to Pakistan, citing security concerns—a decision Goswami vehemently supports. The history of cricketing ties between the two nations has been tumultuous, with bilateral series suspended since 2008 due to political tensions and security issues following the Mumbai terror attacks.
As the nation mourns the tragic loss of lives in Pahalgam, Goswami’s impassioned plea raises a critical question: Can sports remain insulated from the harsh realities of geopolitics and violence? For now, his call for a boycott stands as a stark reminder of the deep wounds inflicted by terrorism, urging a rethink of priorities beyond the boundary line.