Michael Atherton slams India & Pakistan for political interference in cricket, calls to solve issues in the UN

Former England captain Michael Atherton has strongly criticized the growing influence of political tensions on international cricket, urging authorities to keep global disputes away from the sport.

Atherton stressed that political conflicts should be addressed through international diplomatic platforms such as the United Nations, rather than being dragged into cricketing institutions like the ICC. He warned that allowing geopolitics to shape cricketing decisions risks damaging the integrity of the game and undermining fair competition.

“Political matters should be resolved at global forums, not at ICC headquarters,” Atherton remarked, emphasizing that cricket must remain a platform for unity, sportsmanship, and merit rather than a battleground for international disputes.

India and Pakistan are slated to face off on February 15 in Colombo, but the Pakistani government has denied taking the field for the match.

His comments come at a time when diplomatic tensions have increasingly impacted bilateral series, tournament participation, and scheduling decisions, raising concerns among players, analysts, and fans. Atherton’s stance echoes a broader call within the cricketing community to protect the sport from external political pressures and preserve its global spirit.