 "Wasim Akram presents Pakistan's stance on Asia Cup match with India. Image: AFP")
While the phase of speculations around India’s squad finally culminated on Tuesday, when the BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar and T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav announced the 15-member unit for the upcoming Asia Cup, the burning question about the tournament remains, and it has little to do with the squad.
As the multi-nation tournament features both India and Pakistan, who are grouped together, it raises the contentious question – should India play Pakistan in the continental event months.
BCCI in major dilemma
Given the ongoing tensions between the two nations following the gruesome Pahalgam terror attack, which prompted India to launch Operation Sindoor, a military operation against Pakistan, the prevailing opinion on social media and mainstream media is that India should not engage with Pakistan in any sector, be it trade or sports.
Since the tournament schedule is already set, which requires the approval of all participating countries’ governments, the BCCI and the Indian government are under severe pressure to act as per the nation’s sentiments. However, if they choose this path, the BCCI will face another challenge. With organisers already committed and significant investments made in the tournament, withdrawing from the Pakistan encounter at this stage could be difficult for India.
Wasim Akram conveys Pakistan’s stance
For Pakistan, there seems to be no dilemma. They are ready to play Team India and would not mind if the BCCI pulls out at the last minute. Former Pakistan cricketer Wasim Akram conveyed the same following the unveiling of India’s Asia Cup squad.
“Asia Cup schedule is out, there is backlash,” Akram said on the on the Stick With Cricket podcast. “But we in Pakistan are calm. We will be fine whether we play or don’t play. The game must go on,” he said.
“Politics apart, I am not a politician. They are patriotic about their country, we are patriotic about ours. Let’s not go below the belt. Talk about the triumphs of your country; the same goes for Pakistan, and the same goes for India. It is easier said than done.”
As things stand, the India vs Pakistan Group A encounter is scheduled to take place on September 14 in Dubai.