Azharuddin Calls for Consistency in India-Pakistan Cricket Ties

Former Indian cricket captain Mohammad Azharuddin has questioned the logic behind India’s sporadic cricketing engagements with Pakistan. He argues that if regular bilateral series are not feasible, India should abstain from playing Pakistan in any international tournaments.

Azharuddin’s remarks are particularly relevant with the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 on the horizon, where India and Pakistan are slated to clash on September 14 in the UAE. Depending on match outcomes, there is a chance the two teams could play each other up to three times during the competition.

“My stance is clear: either engage fully, or not at all. If bilateral matches are off the table, then participation in international events should also be reconsidered. That’s my firm belief,” Azharuddin stated.

The last bilateral series between India and Pakistan took place in December 2012, when Pakistan toured India for a limited-overs series. Their most recent encounter was at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Dubai, where India clinched a six-wicket victory.

Recently, the highly anticipated World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025 group-stage match between India Champions and Pakistan Champions, initially planned for July 20 at Edgbaston, was cancelled.

The WCL formally announced the cancellation on their social media platforms.

Reports indicate that several Indian players, among them Irfan Pathan, Yusuf Pathan, Suresh Raina, Harbhajan Singh, and Shikhar Dhawan, voiced concerns over the inclusion of former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi. They allegedly imposed conditions that ultimately led to India’s withdrawal from the match.

Addressing the ongoing discussion about India’s involvement in matches against Pakistan, Azharuddin, 62, emphasized the difference between formal tournaments and private leagues.

“These decisions rest with the board and the government,” he commented.

“The veterans’ league lacks official status; it’s not sanctioned by the ICC or the BCCI but is a privately organized event. Conversely, the Asia Cup is a formal tournament governed by the ACC,” he clarified.