A major political controversy has erupted ahead of the Asia Cup 2025 cricket tournament in the UAE, where India and Pakistan are set to face each other on September 14. This high-profile match comes just months after a terror attack in Pahalgam and ongoing border tensions between the two countries.
While the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed India’s participation, including the crucial game against Pakistan, some politicians and former cricketers have voiced strong opinions.
Political Reactions
- Shiv Sena MP Arvind Sawant has urged India to avoid playing Pakistan amid the strained relations.
- Former India captain Sourav Ganguly emphasized that “sport must go on,” highlighting the importance of separating sports from politics.
- Danish Kaneria, a former Pakistani cricketer, criticized Indian players for selective patriotism, questioning the logic behind withdrawing from certain matches but agreeing to play Pakistan in the tournament.
Divergent Views
Leaders from both sides express divergent views with calls to forfeit the match to respect national sentiments, intensifying the debate over sports and politics.
About Asia Cup 2025
The Asia Cup 2025 will feature eight teams divided into two groups:
- India
- Pakistan
- UAE
- Oman
- Bangladesh
- Hong Kong
- Afghanistan
- Sri Lanka
Despite the political tensions, cricket enthusiasts worldwide eagerly await the tournament, which the UAE will host from September 9 to 28.
Stay tuned to Questiqa World News for more latest updates.
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