Since 2013, no bilateral cricket series has taken place between India and Pakistan due to longstanding political hostilities. India has repeatedly declined to resume such contests, and only agrees to face Pakistan in multinational tournaments organised by the ICC or ACC. Just a few days ago, India’s Ministry of Sports formally reiterated that stance, making it clear that bilateral ties in cricket will not resume anytime soon.

This latest announcement has not been received lightly by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Its chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, has responded by setting a new direction for Pakistan’s approach towards India.

PCB Chairman Naqvi declared that Pakistan will no longer make any request-based appeals to India regarding bilateral cricket. According to him, any future discussion will only occur on a basis of equality and mutual respect, not out of unilateral requests.

In a press conference in Lahore, Naqvi stated: “I believe it is very clear now that whenever there is room for dialogue, it will take place on equal terms. The time for request-based talks is over. From now on, everything will proceed on the foundation of parity.”

The PCB appears largely unbothered by India’s position. Instead of viewing it as a setback, the board is shifting towards a more assertive, eye-to-eye approach with its Indian counterparts.

Naqvi further clarified his personal role within the PCB, stressing that he holds no influence in team selection. He explained: “Firstly, I have absolutely no role in picking or dropping any player. We have a selection and advisory panel that meets several times before finalising the squad. Whatever team they select, I trust them completely. They are highly professional, and I have instructed them to make decisions purely on merit.”