 "Former Pakistan cricketer Danish Kaneria criticises India cricketers. AFP")
Former Pakistan cricketer Danish Kaneria launched scathing criticism at Indian cricketers for boycotting the WCL game against Pakistan , which was scheduled to happen on July 20 in Birmingham. Kaneria’s censure has come after it was confirmed on Saturday that the two nations will collide in the Asia Cup 2025. Both India and Pakistan will be placed in the same group, hence a clash will prevail in the UAE.
Danish Kaneria hits out at India legends
Kaneria took to the social media platform X and called the Indian players’ act as “propaganda” rather than “patriotism.”
“Indian players boycotted WCL and called it national duty. But now Asia Cup vs Pakistan is just fine? If cricket with Pakistan is okay, then WCL should’ve been too. Stop using patriotism when it suits you. Let sport be sport - not propaganda.”
BCCI’s stance on ties with Pakistan cricket questioned
Kaneria’s post seemingly targeted the likes of Shikhar Dhawan, Harbhajan Singh, Yuvraj Singh, and others, who pulled out of playing the game against the Pakistan Legends in the World Championship of Legends in July, citing national sentiment.
Now that BCCI is on board with the Asia Cup tournament, where the India vs Pakistan clash is slated to be held on September 14, contrasting cases have emanated, leading to questions on consistency of India’s stance on cricketing ties with Pakistan.
Since the Asia Cup 2025 dates (September 8-28) were announced , the BCCI has faced intense backlash from Indian cricket fans on social media for agreeing to participate in a tournament featuring Pakistan.
The board has drawn flak for its decision, especially after it was revealed that India and Pakistan will be in the same group. The fans are upset, given the strained relations between the two countries, particularly after the Pahalgam terror attack, which has further severed the cricketing ties.