BCCI cancel PCB meeting as Shiv Sena workers disrupt proceedings

BCCI were unable to host talks today as Shiv Sena workers stormed their office

The scheduled BCCI meeting over resumption of cricket ties with Pakistan has been cancelled, after Shiv Sena workers allegedly disrupted proceedings today in Mumbai. According to sources close to Sportskeeda, the meeting has been shifted to an undisclosed location and date, keeping in mind the tension that was created today.

On Sunday, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Shaharyar Khan, along with Executive Committee head Najam Sethi, landed in India, to discuss a potential bilateral series, later this year. A BCCI official said, “This was totally uncalled for, we wanted to sit down and discuss the future of cricket between both countries. Yes, we were aware that there was some unrest going on in the city, but attacking a meeting such as ours is unacceptable. Sport shouldn’t be confused with ideologies.”

The PCB officials were also here to discuss the potential of certain Indian national team players, being a part of the Pakistan Super League (PSL). The newly launched propert, will take place in Dubai and Sharjah in February.

According to sources, the meeting was requested by newly elected BCCI President Shashank Manohar, who wants to integrate both boards in a cohesive manner. The BCCI official added, “Honestly, I cannot tell you much about it, considering the circumstances. But, the motive of the meeting is to improve ties and look beyond the existent stereotypes. Sadly, external forces are not letting us do that.”

The potential series to held in December, was also discussed between BCCI Secretary Anurag Thakur and Sethi, during the last ICC meeting in Dubai. Our source added, “We are yet to initiate concrete talks on it, once something happens, we will be the first one disseminate the information.”

Earlier this year, Sethi and Khan had both visited India to discuss the security issues, that could affect a series such as this. According to sources, PCB’s backup plan was to initiate a triangular series concept, by including Bangladesh in the mix.

The PCB contingent are still in India, however, the BCCI is reluctant on disclosing the date and venue for their next meeting.