NEW DELHI: Former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly has voiced his support for India facing Pakistan in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, saying that while terrorism must be condemned, sports should not be halted.
The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) recently announced the official schedule for the Men’s Asia Cup 2025, confirming a much-anticipated clash between India and Pakistan on September 14 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
In an interview with ANI, Ganguly commented on the issue, stating:
“I’m okay with the schedule. Sport must continue. What happened in Pahalgam should never happen, but we can’t let that stop the game. Terrorism must end. It’s in the past now. Sport must go on.”
Despite recent calls from sections of Indian media and public figures to boycott matches against Pakistan following the Pahalgam incident, official sources confirm that India has no plans to withdraw. India, being the official host of the Asia Cup, has reportedly agreed to all terms during a recent ACC meeting in Dhaka.
Sources within the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) told media that the match will take place as scheduled.
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“The BCCI cannot withdraw from the tournament or the match now. The decision was agreed upon after the ACC meeting. Since India is the host nation, nothing can be changed at this stage,” sources said.
The BCCI has not issued any statement indicating a boycott or objection since the official schedule was released.
The eight-team tournament will kick off on September 9, with the opening match featuring Afghanistan vs. Hong Kong.