Pakistan should not play Dharamsala T20: Imran Khan

E-Paper | March 15, 2026

Former cricket great and Chairman Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Imran Khan has opposed the participation of the Pakistan cricket team in the upcoming ICC World T20 due to what he said were ‘hateful’ statements by the Himachal Pradesh chief minister.

Pakistan are scheduled to play arch-rivals India at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association ground in Dharamsala in their second World T20 fixture on March 19.

The government of the northern state of Himachal Pradesh refused to provide security for the upcoming World T20 tie, citing a January attack on an Indian army base.

Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh said last Sunday that the match should be moved to another venue out of respect for the “martyrs” killed in the assault by militants on an Indian air force base in neighbouring Punjab, an attack India blames on Jaish-e-Mohammad.

He has threatened not to provide security for Pakistan's players at the Himachal Pradesh cricket ground in the Himalayan town of Dharamsala where the clash is due to take place.

Imran Khan believed that the representatives of the Indian government are promoting tension and hate between the neighbouring countries.

“The statement by the Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister is an irresponsible one and is totally against the standards of hospitality and hosting,” said the cricketer turned politician while talking to the media.

Khan said that the Pakistan team has to travel to India to carry out an international obligation which is their right.

“The Chief Minister’s statements clearly promote hate,” he said.

“Amid this situation, I don’t believe the Pakistan team should play at Himachal Pradesh,” added the 63-year-old.

Pakistan kick off their World T20 campaign on March 16 at Kolkata before they travel to Dharamsala for the high-profile encounter.

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M. asghar

Mar 06, 2016 05:00pm

Something untoward is happening in India that may fracture its cohesion as a state and all of this cannot be good for the region as whole.

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Common Pakistani

Mar 06, 2016 05:02pm

he should be our prime minister....we should not play after the CMs statement...have some respect Pakistani team they are dishonouring us..they dun want to reciprocate the friendship so be it.

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Chicago com department

Mar 06, 2016 05:03pm

Will India like to come in pak to play cricket? We always went India, But they never like to play us even at neutral venue.

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stranger

Mar 06, 2016 05:04pm

Why not stay out of T20 at all? It is not fair to the team to send them to India with threats of different sorts. How can they perform?

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Faisal

Mar 06, 2016 05:12pm

Its not just threat, they are insulting Pakistan.

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Pakistani Democrat

Mar 06, 2016 05:12pm

Sanity prevails!

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Paklander

Mar 06, 2016 05:13pm

Imran khan is the man. Shows what a difference b/w Indian and Pakistani politicians. And always thank you Jinnah!

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Fez

Mar 06, 2016 05:16pm

I was always told youre meant to look after your guests and treat them with respect. Pakistan has always been extremely friendly to India and treated it with respect. In 2004 Hutch Cup, Lahore stadium was full of Indian flags and only one or two Pak flags. Their has always been the friendly gesture from Pakistan. The same should be done on their part to promote world peace, not hate. Increased security should be offered, because India is the powerhouse of cricket, and only ten countries play this sport. Its not like football, where you can have one or two teams not going. Its bad for the game, bad for neutrals and bad for peace.

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Sense

Mar 06, 2016 05:21pm

For once I agree Mr.Khan

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Taimoor khan

Mar 06, 2016 05:22pm

Pakistan needs not to play in India. Period.

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Sunil Bhalla

Mar 06, 2016 05:24pm

For those who don't know he is a Congress CM who is opposing whereas BJP's Anurag Thakur who is also in BCCI has promised full security.

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Badami

Mar 06, 2016 05:25pm

Agreed cent percent or demand neutral venue from ICC.

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ample reverence 4 KSA & Pak Army

Mar 06, 2016 05:28pm

You are the only zealous and gutsy figure in the whole country have enough courage to speak bluntly unlike so far's and present leaders of this nation. The genuine ray of hope for this disintegrating homeland. I believe only you can bridle these unbridled enemies of Pakistan. Hats off sir

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Mani

Mar 06, 2016 05:44pm

For once Pak govt do something right. These are direct threats from the Indian govt. There is always been intense hate for Pakistan and Indians desperately seek opportunies to malign Pakistan. Lets have some self respect and boycott the tournament. There is good reason now than ever.

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Mar 06, 2016 05:50pm

I thought obligations and rights are two different things.

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point of view

Mar 06, 2016 05:50pm

This is nothing but the hate politics of the congress. They have been thrown out by the Indian public in election, now taking revenge by doing dirty politics.

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Rahat

Mar 06, 2016 05:51pm

Neutral venue was the best option but we never asked for it. If it's not possible now we should withdraw from the matches but should not go India as they have so much hatred for our team. Sports and hate cannot go together.

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Abdul

Mar 06, 2016 05:57pm

Dirty politics of congress. Wonder they are establishing their base in Pakistan for next elections, as they being kicked out from India.

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Irfan-Sydney

Mar 06, 2016 06:04pm

I support Imran Khan 100 percent on this issue. What is the point of sending a delegation to check safety when the host chief minister has said that he cannot gurantee safety. I am pleading to our government to please show some dignity and refuse going to be an unwelcomed guest. There will be other occasions to be obsequious for our government in front of Indian prime minister Modi.

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Changez_Khan

Mar 06, 2016 06:09pm

Agree. Pakistan should not play in India.

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Irfan-Sydney

Mar 06, 2016 06:11pm

@Sunil Bhalla My friend security is provided by the police Police is under congress chief minister. Bjp does not control police in that province but the congress chief minister. Would you travel to a country where the chief minister who controls police warned you that your safety is not guaranteed and there are groups who want to attack you , but the fedral.government says you will be alright ?

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ksch

Mar 06, 2016 06:16pm

Mean forfiet 2 points to india like Aus I did in 1996 by refusing to play in SL? Venue cant be changed now. Its more of a showoff between bjp and cong. And if they are going to play in india then they should be playing dharmsala as well after security assurance. If they dig up pitch, it will be loss for india not pak. Either play all or dont go at all. No point by not playing 1 game.

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Asif

Mar 06, 2016 06:19pm

This is what a leader should say in these circumstances. That is why I will keep on supporting IK no matter what.

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PHILOSOPHER (FROM JAPAN)

Mar 06, 2016 06:20pm

You said otherwise during your meeting with Modi.

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Zombie

Mar 06, 2016 06:25pm

Imran khan is playing politics

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Zak

Mar 06, 2016 06:27pm

An old Indian cheap tactic to psychologically build pressure on Pakistan team before match. An unsettled , insecure environment is where the players can't perform with ease and focus. If Pakistan pulls out, India would fail in its tactics and be disgraced in the cricketing world. If the go to play, the Indians hope the vitriolic atmosphere will ensure Pakistan lose.

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daada

Mar 06, 2016 06:37pm

100% agreed. PCB needs to grow a spine and refuse to play in that venue if not refuse to participate in the whole tournament unless the security demands are met!

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Fried Chillies

Mar 06, 2016 06:37pm

As an Indian we agree with IK statement. But for those across the border here are the facts so that you know the truth. The CM belongs to congress party which was badly thrashed by BJP in last election. We have election coming up in 5 states. This is a ploy to embarrass central government BJP which has given permission. Go figure

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Sheeda 2.0

Mar 06, 2016 06:37pm

Totally agree with IK, we should not participate in the upcoming T20 WC. Indians like to mix sports and foreign policy which is a poor attempt to convince Pakistan on open ended political issues. One thing for sure though, Indians are winning the hearts and minds of Pakistanis. Keep up the good work!

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Masud

Mar 06, 2016 06:38pm

I feel we can rake advantage of the situation and pull out. As it is our team performance is in a shamble to make an impact in this WC20. At least then it gives us the benefit of the doubt and self respect. This is an insult to Pakistan, we will not be welcomed anywhere in India. This game is the biggest game of the tournament, so pulling out does make an statement , Well said Mr Khan.

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MOIN KHAN

Mar 06, 2016 06:40pm

They are afraid they will lose on this ground due to pitch favor Pakistani team so making unnecessary excuse to change the venue....

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Icon of honesty

Mar 06, 2016 06:43pm

The great Khan is right.

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M.Saeed

Mar 06, 2016 06:48pm

Why only Dharamsala and not every place under threat?

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fida USA

Mar 06, 2016 06:48pm

Pakistan should demand that ICC should cancel the tournament in India and shift the venue to some other Participant Country. Also India should be reprimanded and heavy fine should be imposed on them.

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Vaibhav Bhatt

Mar 06, 2016 06:50pm

Congress party has sunk to a new low.. they were in Pakistan talking about how bad Modi's policy was towards Pakistan, Now their CM is acting all wierd and stupid.. They don't care about India's image, all they want to do is Tarnish Modi's image... Pakistan Team don't worry if this CM can't take care of ur team, our army and CRPF will provide security.. and if they are too busy, we Modi supporters will form a human chain to save ur team from any ugly attack

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dawn

Mar 06, 2016 06:50pm

Fully concur with The Boss.

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Pak

Mar 06, 2016 07:08pm

India's foreign policy mixed with cricket is a sign of desperation due to lack of leverage over Pakistan. It makes India look weak and inhospitable nation

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PrakashG

Mar 06, 2016 07:13pm

It is a pity that we have a disgrace of a CM. If he had any self respect he should have resigned before stating that he won't do his job of providing security to the visiting team. Someone should read him his oath of office.

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sampath

Mar 06, 2016 07:19pm

Fans in Pakistan must understand that Imran has criticized the Congress chief minister Virbhadra Singh not the central government. Let me give some background here. This is pure local level politics by the Congress. The BJP MP Anurag Thakur who is the BCCI secretary was instrumental in building the stadium at Dharmashala and has got the most important match with Pakistan scheduled there. The congress does not want to give Anurag the oppurtunity to host a great match and be there to present the man of the match awards etc. Jealousy burns! Also Anurag in a recent speech in parliament tore eloquently into Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi's political tactics and this stance by the Himachal chief minister is nothing but revenge politics against the BJP and Thakur. While Dharmashala has a very small but beautiful ground there are lots of cities that can host this match.

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Shahid

Mar 06, 2016 07:33pm

@sampath When they have settled their political disputes, let us know. Until then it is not worth us playing a match of cricket which is and should be absolutely apolitical.

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Shaill

Mar 06, 2016 07:36pm

may be Mr.khan is right. But Pakistan is very fair policy for protection then since few year why any ICC members didn't play in pak. If you want battles then fight Hand to Hand or Ek Kargil kar K dikhao. Cricket diplomacy ki Baat karte ho But Aad me terrorism ko pramote be Aap hi karte hoo. I think Pak People Forget Peshawar masscare or Taliban terriosam, jo khud Apne people ko safety nahi de sakte or India ko Blame karte hai. India is far better then Pak don't Compare both country. If you r our Guest then Aap ko kuch nahi Hoga. Hospitality or Tahjeeb Aap se sikhne ki jarurat nai hai

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Ahmed

Mar 06, 2016 07:38pm

IK is A true patriot

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Pakistani Green

Mar 06, 2016 07:42pm

@Vaibhav Bhatt Instead of forming human chains, you guys should have convinced your beloved leader to allow the scheduled bilateral series to take place. Pulling out from the agreement revealed the true sentiments of India towards Pakistan. Now forming chains to potray your 'Tolerant' image to the world?

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Valar Morgulis

Mar 06, 2016 07:50pm

Pakistanis do not care one bit about BJP-Congress internal politics. It's cheap of Indian politicians to use such tactics of squaring scores at the expense of Pakistan Cricket team, and under no circumstances Pakistan should allow that. Settle your internal scores among yourself then lett us know about Cricket. Once again it's unfortunate that India has come as a hindrance in Cricket resumption between two countries.

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Azhar jamil

Mar 06, 2016 07:56pm

Agreed with Imran Khan.

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Farrah

Mar 06, 2016 08:08pm

Goes to tell you how different Indians and Pakistanis are from each other. We are taught in Pakistan the Hospitality is a reflection of ones culture so be kind to your guests. Certainly that's not the case across the border because such poor behavior has been repeated over and over again. Moments like these makes me appericiate Jinnah and Pakistan from bottom of my heart

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Mar 06, 2016 08:12pm

After watching the pathetic performance in Bangladesh, where there was no vitriolic atmosphere, I too will find any excuse to jump ship. It beats being humitared in front of the world.

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Sami Qureshi

Mar 06, 2016 08:14pm

Imran Khan is now a politician, no more a cricketer. His statement is sheer attempt to induct politics in our national games that could further malign the reputation of this game. The matter may be left to the authorities looking after the present security matters of the players in India.

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Karachiite

Mar 06, 2016 08:19pm

It's called lacking decency........which is a derivative of uncultured behavior!

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malik

Mar 06, 2016 08:22pm

IK is right. Pakistan should ask Indian CM for an apology or take this matter to International court for defamation (If possible). Also Pakistan should only play Indian outside India as risk of threat is good enough to reduce players performance.

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Sami Qureshi

Mar 06, 2016 08:25pm

Imran Khan is very fond of visiting India every now and then. If he considers the Indians as enemies then why he goes there on each invitation. Being a leader of a political party he should try to normalize the relation between India and Pakistan rather than to create detrimental atmosphere.

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Ashraf M.

Mar 06, 2016 08:27pm

Pakistan should not play after humiliating behaviour of Indians but the toothless cowards of our government will do anything to please India.

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Hassan

Mar 06, 2016 08:36pm

ICC won't shift the tournament on this stage. Well In dia has nothing to lose. But if Pak pulls out, they not only loose revenues but oppurtunity to compete at the top level. I expect good news from Pak security team and hope Pak will play in WC

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Nabbed Spy Pigeon

Mar 06, 2016 08:44pm

No big deal, Indians are just being Indians!

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mani

Mar 06, 2016 09:03pm

All Pakistani players security is as important as any other intentional team, if this scenario was to be with Aus or eng, or even Indian itself, They would of never sent their team to play. In simple words if you are not welcome, you must not disrespect your own players to play on a place where cricket has become politics rather then a gentlemen game unfortunately.

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ketan

Mar 06, 2016 09:12pm

@Hassan i agree with you. I agree its indian politics is at fault but what pakistan cricket needs at the moment is international cricket. I have been reading comments about their poor performance in Asia cup, every pakistani blames it either on afridi or pcb but no one thinks that it is lack of internation cricket. I think every pakistani knows that how much we indians love and respect your great bowlers, actors , dramas. Its just politics. I am sure you must pull out if there is real threat.

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IamPakistan

Mar 06, 2016 09:16pm

Fully agree to IK

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Mar 06, 2016 09:40pm

Personally i feel that cooler minds should take it over. Indian and Pakistani politics is crushing any chance of peace. VB singh is congress opposition politician and they want to derail initiative by bjp. So is in past with bjp doing to congress. Same is the case with imran vs nawaz. Cat and mouse game goes on. We regular folks, should not get excited. Though Pakistan needs to nail these terrorists that operate from their territory. All know that pathankot attack was crafted to stop peace talks. We live as brothers outside our countries but keep on fighting for crap piece of land .. Gotta stop

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Abdulla Hussain

Mar 06, 2016 09:46pm

Absolutely correct advice, apart from security issues it is an insult to play there especially after the insulting outburst by Virbhadra Singh.

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Mar 06, 2016 09:50pm

I full agree with Imran Khan that such irresponsible statement from the representative , rather chief of the state government is not a good sign. But reality is, with state elections nearby, Indian political leader is scoring & cashing on the popular anti-Pakistan sentiments, especially after Pathancoat incident against ruling party at Centre. It is similar to exactly what Imran Khan, a political leader in Pakistan, has been doing as far as U.S. is concerned.

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Najam Saeed

Mar 06, 2016 09:50pm

Pakistan should ask for a nuteral venue for all its matches outside India.

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Ovais

Mar 06, 2016 09:55pm

PCB just care about the revenue generation. Nisar just sending the commission tomorrow to complete the formality so if anything occur while Pakistani team is in India they will say government is not responsible for any event and we sent the team due to the report from comission. U.A.E can host all Pakistani world T.20 matches and they are capable to host the event in short notices.

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Muzaffar Qureshi

Mar 06, 2016 09:58pm

Himachal Chief Minister's statement is unfortunate and not in the spirit of cricket. Where is "DHARAM" in Dharamshala! Let us play CRICKET.

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AXH

Mar 06, 2016 10:09pm

@ketan - National pride should come above playing international cricket. And, it is ONLY India which behaves int his childish manner.

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fahd

Mar 06, 2016 10:16pm

totally agree. There is a limit to everything.

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Desi bhai

Mar 06, 2016 10:34pm

I agree... There is too much danger of playing cricket in india. Pakistan should not come.

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Shak

Mar 06, 2016 10:53pm

yup I agree. Move the match to a different ground.

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akram

Mar 06, 2016 10:56pm

Pakistan should just boycott the tournament. Its not safe why bother wasting time trying to placate the un-placatable.

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Aadil

Mar 06, 2016 11:01pm

Myself being an Indian would suggest security must be the first priority and final decision must be made on it.

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Ravi

Mar 06, 2016 11:13pm

Hima chal is a predominantly military employed populace. Feelings might b wrong but can't change the anger

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A Shah

Mar 06, 2016 11:15pm

A failed polititican speaking for a flop team. Nobody cares sir!

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Rajan

Mar 06, 2016 11:18pm

Pakistan should come to India and win the tournament. That's will be the answer to chief Minister comment.

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MNKhan

Mar 06, 2016 11:19pm

We should have refused to play even before this statement. Where are the guts snd where is the pride? When india is refusing to honor its commitments , why cant we take a stand? Our team is not going to win anyway so this will save players from embarrassment as well

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Vijay (Toronto)

Mar 06, 2016 11:19pm

@Taimoor khan Amin!

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Mar 06, 2016 11:20pm

it is called hiding behind going/ not going drama to loose the match. like it happens always.

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Sarwar, USA.

Mar 06, 2016 11:21pm

All will be ignored by Nawaz Sharif and Pakistan will play in India. Business interests comes first.

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Mar 06, 2016 11:22pm

let's get to the truth. this drama being played out to avoid losing to worlds no 1 cricket team

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kris

Mar 06, 2016 11:23pm

Ahh..he said not to play at Dharmasala not in India

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Akhill

Mar 06, 2016 11:28pm

Guess who cares.. ??? yeah.. u are right.. NOBODY...

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BRILLIANT LOGIC

Mar 06, 2016 11:31pm

not just cricket....there should be no sporting ties between the two countries till all issues are resolved - an indian.

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Mar 06, 2016 11:31pm

losers like us always make up drama and fools like us eat it up . this is done to avoid another loss.

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Sheeda Tully

Mar 06, 2016 11:34pm

oh come on...have had enough of knee jerk reactions...go and play...be brave...let the cowards bring it on...

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Battleaxe

Mar 06, 2016 11:35pm

Really? Imran khan should henceforth also stop coming here to party and ask money for all sorts of charitable causes of his .

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Patriotic Indian

Mar 06, 2016 11:35pm

We Indians condemn the inhospitable attitude shown by Himachal Pradesh Govt. This is local politics between Congress I vs. BJP issue at the cost of Indian National Interest. I am sorry for the behavior shown by Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh.

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Imtiaz

Mar 06, 2016 11:37pm

I think not only should Pakistan play in Dharamsala but make sure ICC is told in no uncertain terms that they would be held responsible should God forbid any untoward incident take place for lack of security. They should advise the host country of their responsibilities in hosting an ICC event

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Fez

Mar 06, 2016 11:41pm

@mb Hear hear, everything is the same. There is no difference between the two countries.

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Madeeha Mahmood

Mar 06, 2016 11:45pm

Fully agree with Imran Khan. We should not compromise on security of our players.

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Mar 06, 2016 11:48pm

This is the background. Now to what CM said. He has been approached by the Ex servicemen league to stop the match. CM just expressed that it can get very dangerous with so many protests. Later Central govt chipped in and promised extra forces to Himachal police. Now he has said he is ready to take the responsibility. Anurag has also said he respects CM sahibs concerns but they have been taken care of.

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Rohit

Mar 06, 2016 11:50pm

As I have always said......Imran Khan is a visionary thinker......

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Indian

Mar 07, 2016 12:04am

@Chicago com department No, India won't come to pak. Because situation in pak is even worse. I hope you remember attack ok on visiting Sri Lankan team

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Sam

Mar 07, 2016 12:05am

The Congress Govt in India is the worst enemy of any Indo-Pak relationship. There is a long history to it, beginning right from Nehru and the partition. The two countries can only improve ties under any other govt in India, except Congress, as it has been seen in the past. Congress govt in power over the last 60 years stands testimony to stalemate and even worsening of ties. The only positive stride made was during BJP's Vajypaee govt. which unfortunately got derailed no thanks to Musharraf's misadventure.

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Mar 07, 2016 12:09am

As an Indian I fully support Mr. Khan's comments. BCCI should make sure that no game is ever played in Dharmasahala again. That will teach fringe politicians like this to keep petty politics away from sports.

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Mar 07, 2016 12:09am

@Chicago com department ;We don't believe in playing in neutral venues. We will come and play in Pakistan.

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Dipak

Mar 07, 2016 12:18am

Agree.

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Mar 07, 2016 12:19am

Not coming is your choice and with the kind of performance that is coming out of Pakistani team who are having hard time beating UAE... I don't think they would be missed...

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malik

Mar 07, 2016 12:20am

@ketan Poor batting performance or team performance is not due to lack of international cricket but not having high level of domestic cricket in Pakistan. Get your facts right mate !!!!

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Worth_Commenting

Mar 07, 2016 12:24am

@Vaibhav Bhatt As a Pakistani, I appreciate your comments Vaibhav. However, the Pak government will have to assess the security threat based on ground realities. And the ground reality is that the police of Himachal Pradesh is under the direct control of the CM. In the absence of a credible security guarantee from the Indian federal government where they can present an alternative security plan, it would be very difficult for the Pak team to travel to India. But thanks anyway buddy.

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India

Mar 07, 2016 12:39am

No one cares in India what Pakistan elects to do.. Seriously

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Biswas Pradhan

Mar 07, 2016 12:42am

Agreed

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Cricfan

Mar 07, 2016 12:43am

Appointment of incompetent people at PCB by Nawaz Sharif is the real problem! No vision...no decision making at all....given the biased of ICC towards Pakistan! Garbage in garbage out! PCB people made lots of money in PSL...is there any transparency!

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bahulayan

Mar 07, 2016 12:44am

correct ... boycott world cup cric match

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Salman

Mar 07, 2016 12:49am

At least someone from Pakistan is representing the public's sentiment and is not afraid to speak his mind

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Mar 07, 2016 12:56am

@ksch When it is a national event, the BJP & Congress does not matter. We should not take our ideological differences to a level when nation's prestige is involved. Pakistan team should be welcomed and security and hospitality should be given as to any guest. The team does not dictate the foreign policy. Pakistan cricket team welcome to India.

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jamil khokhar

Mar 07, 2016 01:00am

First pakistan team should not even go to India. And then the Indians want to dig up the ground where pakistan and india are supposed to play. You Indians haven't changed a bit. Each time pakistan have played then Indians in india. You've either thrown bottles at the pakistan players or got the ground digged up.

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jamil khokhar

Mar 07, 2016 01:09am

The men in green should not even goto indian. Then the world will know how much of a flop the t20 indian will be.

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shahid

Mar 07, 2016 01:10am

He is right. No need to go. If similar statement was issued from Pakistan while an event were to take place in Pakistan the ICC would have changed the venue outside of Pakistan immediately and all the teams would have refused to come to Pakistan in solidarity with India. Now nobody dared to speak up on Indian aggression and wild ‪statements.

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jamil khokhar

Mar 07, 2016 01:16am

@Sunil Bhalla The bcci couldnt even stop when the shiv senna stormed there office. So how they going to stop this mob from hurt the pakistan team.

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Afzal Khan

Mar 07, 2016 01:16am

Pakistan should not go to India at all.

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Aurangzab

Mar 07, 2016 01:21am

Nothing wrong in the CMs statement.

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A. Friend

Mar 07, 2016 01:28am

H.P. is a small state ruled by opposition Congress party. Their noise should be ignored. The price of democracy is free speech which is usually misused by those in opposition to the ruling party.

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Ain ul Momina

Mar 07, 2016 01:35am

I can't believe myself, but I agree with IK

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concerned citizen

Mar 07, 2016 01:39am

@ksch I totally agree, either pay the tournament or stay out the entire tournament. It is all games being played here and we are ruining the ame of cricket

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Ady

Mar 07, 2016 01:41am

Khan sb is absolutely right but govt won't listen so let the team go and get insulted !!!

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lafanga

Mar 07, 2016 03:08am

Pakistan govt and PCB needs to grow a pair and say thanks but no thanks to the Indian govt if they refuse to provide special security for Pakistan team.

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RAK

Mar 07, 2016 03:25am

Agree with Imran 100% stay away from India.

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rajesh

Mar 07, 2016 04:48am

Mr.Khan, can you please tell us that since when did Pakistanis get the "right" to travel to India to fulfill an international obligation????

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Abdul

Mar 07, 2016 04:56am

These security assessment are dramas. Anyhow welcome to India and enjoy your stay here.

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Arun

Mar 07, 2016 05:01am

The match will go on. Don't worry virbhadra Singh he is congi agent. Don't take him seriously.

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Azmeen

Mar 07, 2016 05:29am

@Common Pakistani PTI?

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Azmeen

Mar 07, 2016 05:32am

IK should've CEO of Pak cricket as he can fix it.

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Ibrahim

Mar 07, 2016 05:34am

Well indian Cricket board , media , government , opposition and a lot of Indian groups have made abundantly clear that they don't want to play with Pakistani cricket team. So PCB have some self respect please and don't send Team .

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Prasanna

Mar 07, 2016 05:49am

Why match shouldn't be shifted to another venue from day 1,unnecessary discussion continues....bjp vs congress,,,,,politicians,atleast spare sports,plz

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Guest

Mar 07, 2016 05:55am

I think all Pakistani needs to support Imran Khan to come in power for next election. We are stuck with old political parties since 1947 , thats reason we not progressing as nation. We need to change our attitude for better future for new generation. We need to look at towards Singapore, Dubai, Malaysia etc for example how quickly they growing. Our old generation is not educated and its our responsibility to guide them how world is changing very fast, we need create good image of our country. Now when we travel abroad, we have to hide our passport as people say Green Passport is most dangerous in the world.

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PakSal

Mar 07, 2016 06:12am

Is this not an ICC event? If so, where's ICC?

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Ziyan

Mar 07, 2016 06:13am

Pakistan should demand to move its matches to either Srilanka or UAE, just like happen in past when Pakistan matches move to other countries. India should be ready to drink the same dose which was prepared for Pakistan in past.

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Indian English journalism

Mar 07, 2016 06:39am

This is not about Pakistan. The Chief Minister, who hails from Congress party wants to embarrass rival Anurag Thakur, who happens to be BCCI official and BJP MP.

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Dr. Farooq Khan

Mar 07, 2016 06:54am

We should keep showing that our love is dominant to our hatred and let them take it as their "Chodrahat" and our weakness. Go greens to play cricket and win the hearts.

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Dr. Farooq Khan

Mar 07, 2016 06:55am

Never respond bitterness with equal or more bitterness. Respond, with love and that it has maximum effects. Pakistan must go to play cricket.

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Tirang

Mar 07, 2016 06:57am

Pakistan cricket team. Please don't come to India ever. And vice versa as well for us. I agree that we must stop all ties sporting, cultural, film etc forever. Let the 2 governments sort out any grievances first and then we can take it from there. As an Indian, I also thank Jinnah. Good fences make good neighbors.

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Tamil Munna

Mar 07, 2016 07:07am

@Faisal You got it.

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Desi bhai

Mar 07, 2016 07:14am

I agree with Mr Khan! Stay home!

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Nkhan

Mar 07, 2016 07:15am

I think it will be better for our team to stay home.ultimately they r going to loose the match.why to spend so much money on them.

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Ramesh Sharma

Mar 07, 2016 07:16am

I agree with Imran that the Pakistan should not go to India for T-20 WC. I even think we should have no interaction until the hate between peoples of both countries dies down. If in the future these people decides to interact with each other the we should start a new chapter of friendly relations like USA and Canada otherwise forget about each other and go on with separate ways.

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Fakhir

Mar 07, 2016 07:25am

Why they call a cricket match a clash. Take it as a game so that the tension can release

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rajesh

Mar 07, 2016 07:29am

@A Shah well stated..... You have echoed what I had in mind.... Thanks

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sajjad akbar

Mar 07, 2016 07:50am

Well said Imran! India should be asked to shift the venue to Lahore or Karachi. We will welcome them!!

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I am INDIAN

Mar 07, 2016 08:41am

Imran, as a cricketer I respect you but giving such statement don't you think its spoil the sportsmanship. Don't give such statement publicly just to get benefit from political point of view.

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Truth

Mar 07, 2016 08:56am

@sampath ...you are right dear

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Kailash Singh

Mar 07, 2016 09:31am

Himachal Pradesh CM is doing cheap politics. He doesn't want Anurag Thakur,Secretary BCCI, to increase his stature who made it possible to allot big Ind-Pak to Dharmshala. Anurag Thakur is the son of a former CM of Himachal Pradesh. Both are from opposite parties. There is no security threat as such. Himachal Pradesh is one of the most peaceful states in India. Buddhist religious leader Dalai Lama lives at Dharmshala and I wish CM Virbhadra Singh invites him to watch the match and bless both the teams.

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Nooru52

Mar 07, 2016 09:33am

Indian Officials and Extremist group openly threaten Pakistan why ICC is not taking any Action. is there any INTERNATIONAL CRICKET COUNCIL.??

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Nooru52

Mar 07, 2016 09:34am

Even not a one Word By ICC.

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Nooru52

Mar 07, 2016 09:36am

@Indian That is 2009 man now its 2016.

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M.S.

Mar 07, 2016 09:52am

Agree, no need to go to India for T20.

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mushtaq ahmad

Mar 07, 2016 09:53am

@Nooru52 no icc in the world.icc is only the name nothing else

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mushtaq ahmad

Mar 07, 2016 09:53am

icc is just the name he is totally bended towards the bcci

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Steve Boston

Mar 07, 2016 09:56am

@Irfan-Sydney For your information 2 items. 1. Central Govt over rules state govt. 2. Central Govt guarantee is not by state police. but by para military which is under central govt. I hope this clears your confusion.

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Steve Boston

Mar 07, 2016 09:59am

@Zak Yoou really think Pakistan can defeat India after looking their performance in Asia Cup.

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Ramesh Nakhwa

Mar 07, 2016 10:01am

Pakistan lost miserably in the Asia Cup. I think the only solace was the match against UAE where they barely won. Is Pakistan developing cold feet , seems like IK has.

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Steve Boston

Mar 07, 2016 10:03am

@MOIN KHAN My God how did you figure it out. WOW

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Azmat Shah

Mar 07, 2016 10:04am

@Sunil Bhalla I gues the police comes under the CM so if the CM is promoting protests and violence, what gaurentee can BCCI provide for security

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Arifwala

Mar 07, 2016 10:09am

Even if security is not an issue, the indifference and disrespect to PCB are enough grounds not to go.

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Nihari Lal 007

Mar 07, 2016 10:16am

On the positive note, team has started to practice on a digged in pitch to prepare for Dharamsala. Hafeez, Afridi and Khurram did not show any loss in performance and were consistent to how they played in the Asia Cup!

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m.usman

Mar 07, 2016 10:32am

we should not play upcoming world t20 india for what what they have done with us last days and our last tour to india .for what they have done with our selectors . well this is the great time for Najam sethi to take revenge . if they say #sorry for all of their last sins then we will be thinking about this.

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Mahen

Mar 07, 2016 10:44am

@Zak Pakistan CANNOT beat India in ANY atmosphere or pitch period!

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Mar 07, 2016 10:45am

This Chief Minister of Congress is under CBI investigations for his and his family’s alleged corrupt activities. Therefore, he has become a self-styled patriot as jingoistic behavior has become the latest trend in our country!

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imtiaz Hydari

Mar 07, 2016 10:47am

I repeat again, Not only should we play but insist on playing at the designated location and make ICC responsible for the security of our players. Let the ICC deal with the Indian Government!

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Mneed

Mar 07, 2016 10:57am

When Indian state chief is not taking responsibility of security of Pakistan team, Whey Pakistan Govt & PCB are stressed to go India for playing ICC T24 world cup. I 100% agree with Imran Khan statement. Why we keep in defensive mode against India. Did India Cricket Board or players showed any intention to come Pakistan for playing cricket, why we are? It is time to show our dignity as nation & takes effective steps for Pakistan not for only sport. We should protest against the Indian behavior & boycott to ICC t24 WORLD CUP owning to security issue.

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OSD

Mar 07, 2016 11:49am

What would be a more befitting reply to the Indians? Playing at Dharamsala in spite of everyone's opposition or boycotting it and then appearing to have retreated after their threats?

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Mar 07, 2016 11:51am

India refused to honor MoU and refused to play us at a neutral venue. Instead, we're hell bent to go and play there despite clear statements from their elected Chief Minister of not providing security to Pak team.

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Kanwaljeet Singh

Mar 07, 2016 11:56am

I agree with Imran. As such Pakistani cricket team is in complete shamble. Security can be a good excuse for not playing against India. It can be face saver for Pakistan.

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ashar

Mar 07, 2016 12:07pm

does not make any sense for Pakistan to travel to India. Govt of India does not want cricket with Pakistan so why Pak Govt is dying to play with them,,,

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iffi

Mar 07, 2016 12:24pm

The only sincere & honest leader in Pakistan ..... & always speaks for Pakistan & its honour .... not for business as our pm does all the time ...

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rejoice

Mar 07, 2016 12:28pm

State of India should take action against chief minister for making ‘hateful’ statements against Pakistan T20 team. Did anybody from secular India condemn his remarks? Our great leader Muhammad Ali Jinnah had a right choice to make to get an independent land - Pakistan for the Muslims living in India.

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rejoice

Mar 07, 2016 12:42pm

@Fried Chillies These types of political structure should be demolished by the voters. I believed that congress was more friendly towards Pakistan and Muslims in India. It is the other way round.

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rejoice

Mar 07, 2016 12:55pm

Pakistan team will go to India for sure. Drama and twists in politics are too vital to grow deeper in political system. We must not listen either to IK and CM. We will have few hiccups at both ends and finally team will board the plane to India. All other who oppose playing in India will sit quietly on hot benches. If Pakistan will take a positive step today, no matter how, India will think twice to visit Pakistan tomorrow. If not, a solid dent of imparity on conscience will remain.

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Haroon Rashid Khan

Mar 07, 2016 02:16pm

There are clear threats on government level and also from other extreme organisations. Pakistan should not play the math in Dharamshala.

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Nooru52

Mar 07, 2016 02:21pm

@mushtaq ahmad I Agree BRO.

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Sunil Varma

Mar 07, 2016 03:51pm

@Zak ...Pakistan team is not in a position to win the opening game with India...please stop giving lame excuses ...

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Mishra

Mar 07, 2016 04:11pm

I hope all those Calling for Pakistan to pull out against the game will not watch the game as mark of the their protest

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Jag USA

Mar 07, 2016 09:55pm

Make up your minds...want to play or not. Stop this "should play", "should not play" non sense. If bunch of grown up man can't make a decision about the game, what are they good for?

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azkhan71

Mar 07, 2016 10:50pm

Well said Skipper...Safety comes first and PCB should consider safety of our players on top of everything!!! Based on these hate filled statements from the CM and no safety for Pak team, I demand ICC that International games should be banned inside India just like ICC has banned for Pakistan!!!

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AZAAD

Mar 07, 2016 10:51pm

Don't send the team. They won't win a single match anyway. This way, at least the team can lay low till they up their game. And, of course, they would have scored a point against India, Imran would get a few more votes. Looks like a win win for everyone.

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AZAAD

Mar 07, 2016 10:51pm

@Shahid So right! Just as it is in Pakistan!!

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sam

Mar 07, 2016 11:26pm

If players safety is not guaranteed, it will impact their performance as well. Pak should request to move games outside India or not go there.

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Ukumar

Mar 08, 2016 01:31am

@Zak It looks like bad situation for Pakistan, any way you see.

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Enkay

Mar 08, 2016 01:34am

It is imperative for Pakistan to take part in the T20 World Cup 2016 and if they do not then they will lose possibly 50 to 100 Million US Dollars. I thus implore all Pakistanis to let their team play in the T20 World Cup 2016 so that they can benefit from the Huge Amount of Fifty to One Hundred US Dollars. It is a fact that the Team which plays better on the particular day WINS.

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Ukumar

Mar 08, 2016 01:36am

@rejoice If it was united India, there would have been no problem. There would be one team representing the best whole of subcontinent. Ammir balling, Kohli batting and Dhoni wicket keeping. What a team.

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LBW

Mar 08, 2016 04:16am

Pakistan team is yet to settle their playing 11. And statement such as this from former greats doesn't help the cause. Its game on. These administrative decisions should be left to to the respective govt and ICC. Even a layman knows the Dharmshala/ mohali pitch will suit Pakistani pacers more and due to close proximity our Pakistani brothers could come in large numbers. As an Indian I would love to see Pakistan play fearless cricket.

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inzy uk

Mar 08, 2016 04:35am

of course Pakistan will play in India, they are just being childish, why would they decline Thousands of dollar by not playing? they just want to give India some heart ache before the match...you will see they will play don't worry, im pakistani by the way

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Don't ask

Mar 08, 2016 06:32am

@Indian Understandable, but we also suggested playing at a neutral venue, UAE or SL. That, too you turned down. I have nothing against the Indian people, but the BCCI doesn't really seem serious about a resumption of cricketing ties.

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Samir

Mar 08, 2016 07:35am

This is why Imran is no different from other politicians. Nawaz is a lot more mature. People need to understand the politics and rely on the central government for any direction. 100s of people make 1000s of comments, and we cant react to every statement. Normalising relations and resolving problems as per international agreements is good for both India and Pak and also the entire world. Anger and aloofness will not help

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abdulla

Mar 08, 2016 10:20am

@Shahid.....I agree that our Indian politicians should avoid playing politics on such issues as it impacts our image.......but Pakistan should be th last country to make noise about this.....its easy making statements as a lay person....but do you think your Government or PCB has the guts to backout? Frankly , a self respecting nation would have refused to come instead of sending a team to assess security.

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sri1

Mar 08, 2016 04:33pm

@M. asghar "Something untoward is happening in India that may fracture its cohesion as a state" You wish. We Indians have always thrived in this unity in diversity and this cacophony. Those ironies have always happened in India and we are stronger for that and the world notices that. All the very best, before those fantasies do have a look closer home.

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