Former India Cricket Captain Mohammad Azharuddin expressed his concerns about the next India-Pakistan match in the Asia Cup T20 tournament, scheduled for September 14 at the Dubai International Stadium, citing current cross-border tensions between the two nations, including the recent terrorist attack by Pahalgam and India Sindoor.The Asian Cup will take place in the water from September 9 to 28, India and Pakistan placed in the group A alongside the water and Oman.“Looking at the current situation in the country, we should not play this match. Everyone is aware of the problems we face,” Azharuddin told Ians.“And if we have to play, then we have to play all sports-not only by choosing and choosing,” he added, referring to the lack of bilateral series between the two nations since 2012.Azharuddin stressed that even if it was his personal opinions, the final decision would rest with the higher authorities. “In the end, it is the government that will decide whether we must play or not. The decision taken by the board of directors, the government and the BCCI will be final.”“Until the problem is solved, we must not move forward,” he said, suggesting that cricket ties should remain suspended until political tensions facilitate ease.“No matter how much we say, in the end, only what the government and the BCCI want to happen. Whatever I say today, I say it after a careful reflection and understanding,” concluded Azharuddin.
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Do you agree with Mohammad Azharuddin’s position on cricket ties between India and Pakistan?
The tournament will showcase 19 games through Dubai and Abu Dhabi, BCCI being the official host.The two nations agreed not to play on the ground by the other before at least 2027, which led to the selection of water as a neutral place.India’s campaign begins against water on September 10, with a second potential meeting against Pakistan possible in the Super Four stage on September 21.Group B includes Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Hong Kong.The teams will be allowed to feed the 17 -members teams for the tournament.Despite the absence of bilateral cricket since 2012-13, India and Pakistan continue to compete in ICC and ACC tournaments in neutral sites.
Oh yes, because not playing cricket match will definitly solve all the problems between two countries. What a brilliant strategy Azhar! Maybe we should also ban biryani because that also came from there no? 🙄
Breaking news: Azharuddin suggests India should not play Pakistan. Meanwhile Pakistan captain already practicing his losing speech 😄 On serious note, Pakistan needs India matches more than we need them. Their whole economy depends on India matches!
Azhar bhai is 100% right! Why we should give them importance?? They dont deserve to play with us after what they did. Boycott is the only answer now.
Finally someone speaking sense! 👏👏
Context matters here peoples. Azharuddin made this statement during interview where he was asked about Champions Trophy 2025 which is scheduled in Pakistan. India has refused to travel there due to security concern. ICC is now considering hybrid model where India plays in Dubai. This whole controversy is because Pakistan dont want hybrid model they want all matches in Pakistan only.
Azharuddin talking about not playing Pakistan… the same person who was banned for match fixing. Maybe he’s worried Pakistan knows his old bookies numbers lol 😂
The real reason Azhar dont want the match is because he knows India will thrash Pakistan again and he cant handle seeing his ‘friends’ lose so badly. Remember guys, this same man used to be very friendly with Pakistani players back in his days. Now suddenly he is patriot? Something fishy here…
This is completely wrong approch. Cricket should be kept away from politics. These matches bring both countries together and promote peace. Azharuddin is being to emotional here and not thinking about fans who waiting for this clash since years.
I respekt Azhar but disagree strongly. Sports and politics are two different things yaar. If we stop playing then what about fans? What about young players who dream of playing in these big matches??
Guys, just to remind you all – India and Pakistan have not played bilateral series since 2012-13. They only meet in ICC tournaments now. Last match was in Asia Cup 2023 where India won by 228 runs. The rivalry generates huge revenue for ICC and both boards benefit from it financially.
Azhar sir said the truth!! No match with them untill they stop terrorism. Our soldiers are dying at border and we playing cricket?? Shame on BCCI if they agree to play.
Lol Azharuddin giving advice on cricket ethics. Thats like asking Nirav Modi for financial planning tips 😂😂 But jokes aside, he does have a point about relations being at all time low.