The Indian Government today reiterated its stand that bilateral cricket series with Pakistan could not be allowed under 'present circumstances' but the Indian team was free to play against that country in multilateral tournaments.

"After taking all the relevant factors into consideration, the Government has come to the view that circumstances prevailing at present are not fully conducive for Indian cricket team to play bilateral matches against Pakistan," Minister of State of Sports Pon Radhakirishnan said in a written reply in Lok Sabha.

"There is, however, generally no objection to playing against Pakistan in multilateral matches at regular venues," he said.

To a related question, the minister said there was no proposal for organising hockey matches between the two countries. "The Government will take a decision on receipt of the proposal in this regard," he said.

© PTI