Atherton Urges ICC to Rethink India-Pakistan Matches, Citing Exploitation of Rivalry

Former England captain Michael Atherton has called on the International Cricket Council (ICC) to re-evaluate its policy of scheduling India versus Pakistan matches in major tournaments. His statement follows recent events in the Men’s Asia Cup, where the final saw India triumph over Pakistan, a contest marred by controversy. Atherton, writing in The Times, acknowledged the economic and diplomatic advantages of these high-profile matches but argued that it’s time to end them due to the strained political relationship between the two countries. He highlighted that since 2013, India and Pakistan have consistently played each other in ICC competitions, including three matches in the recent Asia Cup, all won by India. Atherton pointed out the significant economic value these matches bring to ICC tournaments, which helps boost the broadcast rights revenue. He warned that such fixtures have become a representation of broader tensions, criticizing the ICC for using the rivalry for commercial gain rather than promoting peace or sportsmanship. Atherton believes the ICC should make the fixture draw for future events transparent and allow the two teams to avoid playing each other if necessary, rather than prioritizing economic needs.