Debate Sparked as Former Cricketer Suggests India-Pakistan Asia Cup Clash May Not Happen

Ahead of the Asia Cup 2025, former Indian cricketer Kedar Jadhav has ignited discussion by implying that the highly anticipated match between India and Pakistan might be canceled.

Addressing the subject, he underscored India’s prowess to triumph over any adversary. While acknowledging India’s capability to secure victory against any team, notably Pakistan, he strongly voiced that the match should be avoided.

“In my opinion, the Indian side should not participate at all. Regarding India’s performance, it consistently wins regardless of the location. However, this particular match should not occur, and I confidently predict it will not,” Jadhav asserted.

His remarks follow similar opinions expressed by legendary spinner Harbhajan Singh, who also suggested India might boycott Pakistan in the tournament.

“Why do we give them so much importance?” Harbhajan inquired.

Harbhajan recently participated in the World Championship of Legends (WCL), where the India Champions declined to play against Pakistan Champions in both the group stage and the semi-final.

The Indian team, which included prominent players like Shikhar Dhawan, Yuvraj Singh, Irfan Pathan, Suresh Raina, and Yusuf Pathan, made this decision in response to the tragic attack in Pahalgam.

Explaining his perspective, the 45-year-old elaborated: “For me, the soldier stationed at the border, whose family often endures separation, and who sometimes sacrifices their life, their sacrifice holds immense value. In contrast, abstaining from a cricket match is a minor consideration.”

Meanwhile, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has already released the Asia Cup 2025 schedule. The tournament, planned in the UAE, will commence on September 9 with Afghanistan facing Hong Kong in the opening match.

India and Pakistan are in Group A with UAE and Oman, while Group B features Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and Hong Kong. Pakistan will inaugurate their campaign against Oman on September 12, preceding the significant match against India on September 14.

The tournament will adopt the T20 format as preparation for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka in February.

The leading two teams from each group will advance to the Super Four stage, opening the possibility for another India-Pakistan encounter on September 21. The final match is scheduled for September 28.