The BCCI is facing a great deal of criticism from the fans for agreeing to play Pakistan in the forthcoming Asia Cup 2025.
When is Asia Cup 2025?
The Asia Cup 2025 is scheduled to be held from September 9–28 in the UAE with India holding the hosting rights. India and Pakistan have mutually agreed to compete only at neutral venues till 2027 due to the prevailing cross-border tension between them.
What are the dates for India vs Pakistan matches?
India and Pakistan are pooled in the same group by the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). Notably, the two neighboring nations will face off on September 14. There are chances of both teams meeting thrice during the course of the tournament.
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India play their first group match against UAE on September 10, and their second group match is against Pakistan on September 14 and their third group match is scheduled against Oman on September 19.
If both India and Pakistan advance to the Super Four, the chances of which are high, both teams will square again on September 21. And if both make it to the final, it will be played on September 28.
How public and experts have reacted?
Due to rising tension between India and Pakistan, also in the wake of the recent Pahalgam attack, supporters have been pleading with the Sports Ministry to step in and cancel the forthcoming match ever since the schedule was released.
Notably, the Indian government banned all activities with Pakistan, including its artists and music, after terrorists massacred 26 civilians in Pahalgam in April 2025. Therefore, playing cricket against Pakistan is not seen as appropriate by the supporters.
Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly had mentioned recently that India can play Pakistan but another Pahalgam attack should not happen. Meanwhile, Mohammad Azharuddin, Manoj Tiwary, and ex-Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria have also weighed-in on the subject.
What happens if India decide to not to play against Pakistan?
It has been reported that if India decide to not play against Pakistan, the game won't be considered canceled as the ACC is in charge of the tournament. Furthermore, it will be deemed a forfeit if India withdraw from the match against Pakistan. The Men in Green will receive all of the points in the event of a forfeit, and the team captained by Mohammad Rizwan will be considered victorious.
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