Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Aaditya Thackeray has sharply criticised the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over its decision to field a team against Pakistan, describing the move as a betrayal of the nation’s sacrifices and values.

In a post on X, Thackeray accused the BCCI of placing revenue above national interest. “Blood and water cannot flow together, but for BCCI, blood and revenue can flow together,” he stated. He added that he has written to Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, urging the central government to intervene and prevent what he termed a “shameful act” by the cricket board.

Thackeray pointed out that while India has consistently sought to isolate Pakistan diplomatically, including sending delegations of MPs abroad, the BCCI’s decision undermines these efforts. Citing NCERT textbooks detailing terrorist attacks originating from Pakistan, he said, “Perhaps the BCCI officials should be sent these books first.”

Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s statement from the Red Fort after the Pulwama terror attack that “blood and water cannot flow together,” Thackeray said the cricket board’s move overshadows the sacrifices of India’s armed forces. “If the BCCI believes it is above the Prime Minister’s declaration, it is truly embarrassing,” he added.

Dismissing claims that India is obliged to play Pakistan due to Asia Cup rules, Thackeray called it a joke, noting BCCI’s considerable influence in the International Cricket Council (ICC). “Despite all government efforts to expose Pakistan’s role in Pulwama, the BCCI prioritises money over patriotism by agreeing to play them,” he concluded.