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As anticipation builds for the 2025 Asia Cup in the UAE, former India captain and ex-BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has lent his support to the much-debated India vs Pakistan fixture, set for September 14 in Dubai.
Amid public backlash following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Ganguly struck a measured tone, stating, “I am okay. The sport must go on. At the same time, Pahalgam should not happen… Terrorism must be stopped.”
Also Read: Asia Cup 2025: BCCI faces massive backlash over India-Pakistan clash after Pahalgam terror attack
Ganguly’s remarks come at a time when calls to cancel the high-profile match were growing louder. His comments add weight to the ACC and BCCI’s decision to go ahead with the encounter, even as political tensions between the two nations remain unresolved.
Interestingly, this comes just days after India’s World Championship of Legends (WCL) team pulled out of a match against Pakistan Champions, led by Yuvraj Singh, mere hours before play.
India’s Group A fixtures feature Pakistan, UAE, and Oman, while Group B comprises Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Hong Kong. As per ACC regulations, India and Pakistan are guaranteed at least one meeting in the group stage and another in the Super Four, with a third possible if both reach the final.
Neutral Venue Amid Political Tensions
Although the BCCI is the official host, the decision to stage the tournament in the UAE reflects a mutual agreement with Pakistan to play only at neutral venues until 2027. The arrangement is designed to reduce diplomatic friction while preserving the competitive essence of the event.
Backlash and Voices of Reason
The inclusion of an India‑Pakistan clash has drawn criticism from fans and former players alike, given recent events in Pahalgam. However, Ganguly’s comments emphasize a firm belief in separating sport from politics: “Sport needs to be played.”
With Ganguly’s endorsement helping to defuse tensions, the stage is set for what could become one of cricket’s most memorable encounters. As teams gear up for battle, one thing is clear: Asia Cup 2025 is all set to be a cricketing spectacle.
