Country's image has taken a hit: Anurag Thakur

New Delhi: In what was a major embarrassment to Board of Control for Cricket in India secretary Anurag Thakur, also president of the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association, the marquee clash between India and Pakistan was on Wednesday taken away from the scenic town over security concerns. Thakur minced no words against the Congress-led Himachal Pradesh government — who had said they were unable to provide adequate security for the game — saying they had “tarnished the country’s image”. “I think it gives a wrong impression about the country, about the state which is not in the interest of a country like India. Due to one state not delivering, why should India get a bad name?” said Thakur here on Wednesday.

The March 19 India vs Pakistan match would have been the first high-profile game at the picturesque venue, that got international status last year. “All I can say is that the negative atmosphere created by the ruling party doesn’t go well with the fans, sponsors and the country as a host.

“They (Himachal Pradesh government) have left no stone unturned to destroy the image of the state and the country. To give different statements everyday has probably become their habit,” he said.

After days of hectic activities and inspection by a Pakistan security delegation, the International Cricket Council on Wednesday relocated the match to Eden Gardens, where Pakistan will be based for the initial stages of the event.

HPCA head Thakur said it was an “embarrassing situation” created by the state government, for whom the pride of nation was least important. “I don’t see in the World Cup history such kind of situation faced by the ICC ever,” the BJP MP said. “They have again shown that for them it is family first, party next and nation comes last.”