As anticipation builds for the high-stakes Asia Cup 2025 clash between India and Pakistan, scheduled for Sunday, September 14 in Dubai, controversy is heating up across the country. The political and public sentiment surrounding the match has taken a sharp turn following the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of several innocent Indian civilians.
Uddhav Thackeray: “Playing Pakistan Is an Insult to National Sentiment”
Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray has strongly opposed India’s decision to play Pakistan in the tournament. Citing the emotional toll of recurring terror attacks linked to Pakistan, Thackeray criticized the match, calling it a betrayal of national values.
“This cricket match is an insult to national sentiments. Should we be playing cricket with Pakistan while our soldiers sacrifice their lives on the borders?” Thackeray was quoted as saying by the Economic Times.
His remarks echo the growing sentiment among many Indians who believe that sporting ties with Pakistan should be reconsidered in light of ongoing cross-border tensions and terror-related incidents.
Stakes Are High as India and Pakistan Eye Super Fours Qualification
Despite the political storm, the match itself carries significant cricketing weight. India kicked off their Asia Cup 2025 campaign with a convincing win over UAE, while Pakistan made a strong statement by comfortably defeating Oman.
The upcoming match is not just about pride but also a potential entry into the Super Fours. With both teams in strong form, the September 14 encounter is expected to draw massive global viewership — even as calls grow louder to cancel the fixture due to geopolitical concerns.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has yet to officially respond to the backlash, but pressure is mounting from various quarters, including political leaders, citizens, and families of victims affected by recent terror attacks.
While the game promises to be a spectacle on the field, it has undoubtedly sparked a fiery debate off it — reigniting questions about the intersection of sports and national security.
