Mohammad Azharuddin on IND vs PAK
Former Indian cricket captain Mohammad Azharuddin has shared his strong perspective on the ongoing discussion regarding the Asia Cup match between India and Pakistan, set for September 14 under the auspices of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). With political strife halting bilateral cricket between the two nations for more than ten years, Azharuddin believes that the approach to international cricket should remain uniform.
His remarks come as the cricket community eagerly awaits the highly anticipated Asia Cup encounter, despite the absence of any bilateral series between India and Pakistan since 2012 due to political and diplomatic issues.
Azharuddin comments on the India-Pakistan showdown in the Asia Cup
Azharuddin emphasized that cricket boards need to establish a definitive policy concerning the matches between India and Pakistan. “I consistently maintain that either everything should take place, or if it doesn’t, then nothing should. If you’re not engaging in bilateral matches, then participating in international tournaments shouldn’t happen either, that’s my perspective,” stated the former captain.
His remarks have ignited discussion as supporters anticipate the Asia Cup match, which is among the most-viewed sporting events worldwide.
The ex-captain of India emphasized that cricket must function uniformly. “It’s all or nothing,” he stated, highlighting the importance of consistent decision-making regarding cross-border sporting relationships.
Azharuddin shared his thoughts on veteran players choosing not to participate in the India vs Pakistan match. In addition to discussing the Asia Cup, he addressed the news that certain Indian senior cricketers decided to skip the World Championship of Legends (WCL), a privately organized tournament. “This is an issue for the board and the government,” Azharuddin stated.
He went on to clarify the distinction between official and unofficial tournaments. “The veterans’ league is unofficial; it isn’t sanctioned by the ICC or the BCCI and is organized privately. In contrast, the Asia Cup is an event regulated by the ACC,” he stated.
Mohammad Azharuddin’s remarks regarding the India vs Pakistan match have ignited discussions ahead of the much-expected encounter on 14 September. The ex-Indian cricket captain stated that if India chooses not to engage in bilateral series with Pakistan, then the BCCI ought not to take part in tournament matches against them either.
In a media interaction, Mohammad Azharuddin highlighted the need for a consistent approach regarding IND vs PAK. “If there’s no bilateral cricket, then what’s the purpose of competing in multi-nation events? Either participate fully or not at all,” he stated.
India and Pakistan are scheduled to clash in a high-stakes match on 14 September, likely as part of the Asia Cup or another ICC event. The two teams have not engaged in a bilateral series since 2012–13, with political tensions influencing their cricketing relations.
Azharuddin’s statements have reignited conversations about the intersection of sports and diplomacy, with supporters and analysts contemplating the possible ramifications of a boycott.
The anticipated match on 14 September is projected to be part of either the Asia Cup or another ICC event, based on the tournament schedule. As usual, excitement is already building among fans, with tickets expected to sell out quickly and millions likely to tune in from around the world.
Azharuddin’s remarks have ignited new discussions across social media, news channels, and fan forums. Some supporters resonate with his viewpoint, believing that sports should mirror political realities, while others contend that cricket offers a unique avenue for peaceful interaction and should not be entwined with diplomatic challenges.
Regardless, Azharuddin’s demand for clarity compels the BCCI and cricket officials to reassess their stance on Indo-Pak cricket relations. Whether his suggestion leads to a change in policy is uncertain, but one thing is clear—the conversation regarding India vs Pakistan cricket is far from finished.
