Explained: This article explains the political background, key decisions, and possible outcomes related to Explained : Saqlain Mushtaq blasts politics in cricket: ‘It’s harming humanity’ and Its Impact and why it matters right now.
NEW DELHI: Following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, India–Pakistan relations hit an all-time low, with trade between the two nations coming to a complete halt. On the sporting front, India decided to face Pakistan only in international tournaments, limiting cricketing encounters to ICC and ACC events.
However, former Pakistan spinner Saqlain Mushtaq strongly asserted that politics must be kept out of cricket, warning that its interference not only damages the sport but erodes humanity itself.
“I believe politics should be eradicated as it’s detrimental to humanity. Politics is our enemy, and it’s not just harming cricket, but humanity as a whole. It’s a loss for the sport and its players. Cricket is meant to unite nations, not drive them apart,” Saqlain told ANI in an exclusive interview.
He further stressed that cricket should exist purely as a source of entertainment, free from political agendas or conflict. Saqlain also refrained from commenting on Bangladesh’s decision to skip the T20 World Cup in India, reiterating his firm belief that politics has no place in sport.
“Cricket is about entertainment, not a battlefield or war. I prefer not to comment on Bangladesh’s decision not to play in India, as I’ve made it clear and told you already that I don’t believe in politics,” he added.
Saqlain’s remarks come amid heightened tensions between Bangladesh and India over the T20 World Cup. Bangladesh opted not to play in India, citing security concerns, following the removal of Mustafizur Rahman from Kolkata Knight Riders’ IPL 2026 squad in line with a BCCI directive concerning atrocities against minorities in Bangladesh.
In response to Bangladesh’s withdrawal, the International Cricket Council (ICC) replaced them with Scotland for the tournament.