Controversy erupts ahead of Champions Trophy: Team India's jersey to omit Pakistan's name

Mumbai (The Uttam Hindu) :  In a move that is likely to spark a diplomatic row  the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided that Team India's jersey will not feature Pakistan's name in the upcoming Champions Trophy. The decision which was taken in consultation with the Indian government  is seen as a response to the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan. The two nations have been at odds over several issues, including Kashmir and terrorism. According to sources  the BCCI had initially planned to have Pakistan's name printed on the jersey, as is customary in international cricket tournaments.

However, the Indian government is said to have intervened advising the BCCI to drop Pakistan's name from the jersey. The move has already sparked a controversy  with many questioning the BCCI's decision. "This is a clear case of politics being mixed with sports," said a senior Pakistani cricket official. "We condemn this decision and urge the ICC to intervene." The International Cricket Council (ICC) has so far refused to comment on the issue. However  sources indicate that the ICC may take up the matter with the BCCI and the Indian government.

The Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place in England and Wales from June 1 to June 18. Team India is set to face Pakistan in a highly-anticipated match on June 4. The controversy has already generated a lot of heat on social media  with many fans from both countries weighing in on the issue. While some have supported the BCCI's decision  others have criticized it saying that it is unfair to mix politics with sports.

REACTIONS FROM BOTH SIDES

- "We have taken this decision in consultation with the government. We will not comment further on this matter." - BCCI official

- "This is a clear case of politics being mixed with sports. We condemn this decision and urge the ICC to intervene." - Pakistani cricket official

- "I don't think this is the right decision. Cricket should be kept separate from politics." - Indian cricket fan

- "I support the BCCI's decision. Pakistan has been a thorn in our side for too long." - Indian cricket fan

WHAT'S NEXT?

The ICC is likely to take up the matter with the BCCI and the Indian government. However  it is unclear what action the ICC will take. The Champions Trophy is just around the corner and the controversy is likely to generate a lot of heat in the coming days.