The upcoming India versus Pakistan match in the Asia Cup 2025, set to take place in Dubai on September 14th, has become a focal point of attention. This match will be the first encounter between the two sides since Operation Sindoor. The event has sparked debate and opposition within India, with some individuals and groups advocating for its cancellation. The Indian team coach has addressed the situation, clarifying the team’s stance and emphasizing that decisions are made by the BCCI. Both teams are gearing up for the match, with a strong performance in their opening game as their objective.
Sitanshu Kotak, the batting coach for the Indian team, has commented on the India-Pakistan match, affirming the team’s focus on achieving a successful performance against Pakistan. The players’ attention remains on the game itself.
Kotak noted, “We will follow the BCCI’s directives in this matter. The decision to play Pakistan was made by the government and the BCCI. Our focus is on playing the game.” He also noted the competitive nature of India-Pakistan matches and the team’s determination to stay focused.
The match has faced significant backlash within India. Following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam and India’s Operation Sindoor targeting terrorist camps in Pakistan, tensions have escalated between the two countries.
This has also impacted the sports realm. The Pakistan hockey team did not participate in the Asia Cup held in India. Nevertheless, the Indian team is scheduled to compete against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025, which will be held in Dubai on September 14th.
The BCCI is facing criticism on social media. A video featuring India’s T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav interacting with Pakistan’s captain Salman Ali Agha has drawn considerable criticism, adding fuel to the controversy. This has led to reported decline in ticket sales for the upcoming match.