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Former India captain and World Cup winner Kapil Dev has urged people not to blow the India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 clash out of proportion. Emphasizing that the government will handle its responsibilities, and the players should focus on theirs.
Since the Asia Cup schedule was announced, discussions have resurfaced over whether India and Pakistan should face off in cricket, given the strained political ties between the two nations—especially following the Pahalgam attack. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) clarified that it follows the central government's policy, which allows participation in multinational tournaments but bars bilateral series with Pakistan.
Speaking to the media on Thursday, Kapil Dev remarked, "Just go and win. Those whose job is to play should concentrate solely on playing. There’s no need to make this a big issue. The government will do its part, and the players should focus on theirs."
India and Pakistan last played a bilateral series in 2012–13, with political tensions and security concerns halting further cricketing exchanges since then. Now, their encounters are limited to ICC and ACC tournaments.
India is hosting the 17th Asia Cup, which began on September 9. Due to ongoing tensions between the two nations, neither side is playing on the other's soil. As a result, the tournament is being held in the United Arab Emirates, with matches in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
India started their title defense with a dominant nine-wicket win over UAE, bowling out the hosts for just 57 runs in 79 balls and chasing the target in only 27 deliveries.
Commenting on the opening victory, Kapil Dev said, "The team looks very strong and has delivered an impressive performance. We hope they go on to win the trophy."
India are the reigning champions after clinching the ODI edition of the Asia Cup in 2023.
