The highly anticipated India-Pakistan face-off is set for September 14th, in the 2025 Asia Cup. Political tensions have been rising, as this will be their first encounter post the Pahalgam terror attack. While social media is abuzz with calls for a boycott, the BCCI has firmly stated they won't back down.
BCCI Secretary Devjit Saikia commented in an interview, 'As the BCCI Secretary, I extend my best wishes to our team for Sunday's match. We are confident the players will fight hard for victory, serving as a robust retaliation to incidents we prefer not to dwell on. Although we face a nation with strained relations, it is essential to participate in these matches due to Indian government policy.'
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Former Sports Minister's Statement
In a video shared by news agency ANI, former Sports Minister Anurag Thakur noted, 'In ACC or ICC tournaments, participating countries are obligated to play. Failure to do so could result in exclusion or forfeiting points to the opposing team. However, India has refrained from bilateral series with Pakistan and will continue until terrorism ceases.'
Nonetheless, opposition against the government's stance is mounting, with effigies burned in protest at various locations. Social media is rife with criticism and pleas for a match boycott directed at the government.
Read More: The Compelling Reason Behind India's Obligation to Compete Against Pakistan in Asia Cup, Explains Former Sports Minister
India vs Pakistan Head to Head (T20)
Total Matches: 13, India Wins: 9, Pakistan Wins: 3, Tied: 1*Note: The 2007 India-Pakistan match in Durban ended in a tie, won by India in a bowl-out. It was their first T20 match.
India vs Pakistan Head to Head (T20) Asia Cup
Total Matches: 3, Pakistan Wins: 1, India Wins: 2
India vs Pakistan Head to Head @Dubai
Total Matches: 3, Pakistan Wins: 2, India Wins: 1
