Following Afghanistan's decision to withdraw from the upcoming tri-series, Shiv Sena leader Priyanka Chaturvedi has also advised the BCCI and the Indian government. She stated that the country's security and national priorities are more important than sports.
Priyanka Chaturvedi: Following the death of three Afghan cricketers in a Pakistani attack, the Afghanistan Cricket Board has decided to withdraw from the tri-series scheduled next month with Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Shiv Sena (Uddhav Thackeray) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi reacted bly to this, calling the Pakistani regime a "bunch of cowards."
Priyanka Chaturvedi condemned Pakistan by sharing a post by Afghan cricketer Rashid Khan and also warned the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that the country's security and interests should be prioritized over sports.
Priyanka Chaturvedi's Strong Stance
Reacting to the incident, Priyanka Chaturvedi described the Pakistani regime as a 'bunch of cowards.' She stated that Pakistan thrives by killing innocent people and constantly creates tension at the border. She also sent a message to the BCCI and the Indian government that the country's security and national honor should be prioritized over sports. Priyanka wrote on X (formerly Twitter):
'The Pakistani regime is made up of a bunch of cowards who thrive on the blood of innocent people. It's good to see that the Afghanistan Cricket Board has canceled its series with Pakistan. I wish the BCCI and the Indian government could also learn from this on how to prioritize the country over sports.'
Afghan star cricketer Rashid Khan expressed deep sorrow and anger over Pakistan's attacks. He stated that recent Pakistani airstrikes claimed the lives of civilians, including women, children, and young cricketers. Rashid Khan called Pakistan's targeting of innocent civilians completely unethical and barbaric. He welcomed Afghanistan's decision to withdraw from the upcoming matches, stating, "Our national dignity must come first. We must prioritize the safety of our players and citizens."
Afghanistan Cricket Board's Stance
The Afghanistan Cricket Board clarified on its social media handles that the decision to withdraw from the tri-series with Pakistan was taken from a security perspective. The board stated that this decision was essential to ensure the safety of players and citizens. The ACB also added that this step was not just against the spirit of the game, but necessary for national honor and security.
Priyanka Chaturvedi also mentioned on this occasion that questions have often been raised about matches with Pakistan in the Asia Cup hosted in India. She argued that the country's security and citizens' lives cannot be jeopardized in the name of sports.