The India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 Group A clash, scheduled for September 14 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, has been engulfed by growing calls for a boycott.
Boycott calls cast shadow ahead of India vs Pakistan Asia Cup clash
The noise surrounding the match, amplified by social media campaigns and public sentiment following recent national events, has spilled into the Indian dressing room, creating unease among players in the build-up to the marquee fixture.
Reports suggest that members of the Indian squad were unsettled by the intensity of the boycott debate. With emotions running high in the country after the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor, the political and social context has put the team under additional scrutiny.
Gautam Gambhir’s clear directive to his players amid boycott noise
Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir has taken decisive steps to ensure the players remain focused on cricket. Though Gambhir himself has previously expressed strong personal opinions against playing Pakistan until terrorism ends, he has urged the team to separate sports from politics during this Asia Cup campaign.
“Control what you can on the field,” was his message, according to a BCCI official. Gambhir emphasized professionalism, asking his players to block external noise and concentrate solely on delivering their best against Pakistan. He reminded the squad that the Asia Cup is not just another bilateral contest but a stage to showcase India’s cricketing strength in a high-pressure environment.
Backing Gambhir’s stance, assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate admitted that the players were fully aware of the sensitivities around the match. While acknowledging public emotions, he reiterated that the team is simply following the BCCI and government’s directive to play.
“Yes, emotions will be carried onto the field,” Ten Doeschate was quoted saying to TOI. “It is a very sensitive issue. The players share the compassion and feelings of the vast majority of the Indian public. But Gauti’s message has been very professional: don’t worry about what’s outside your control, stay focused on cricket.”
The former Netherlands all-rounder added that the Asia Cup had itself been uncertain for months due to political tensions, and the squad had prepared with both outcomes in mind. “We’re aware of people’s feelings. At the same time, we will put it behind us. The guys will get a chance to play for their country and will be as professional as they can given the circumstances,” he said.
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BCCI’s firm stance on Asia Cup participation
Amid public pressure, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reinforced its commitment to the Asia Cup. Officials clarified that participation in a multilateral tournament and playing against each opponent is mandatory under ICC rules, and withdrawing from any game could lead to wider repercussions, including affecting India’s chances of hosting future international events.
The BCCI also stressed that the government’s stance remains paramount, and as long as clearance is given, Team India is bound to compete against Pakistan. While the boycott noise remains strong outside, within the Indian camp, the focus is firmly on preparation and execution.
For the Indian players, the challenge now is to shift attention back to the field. With Suryakumar Yadav leading a new-look side and Gambhir reinforcing a professional mindset, the team is determined to channel emotions into performance. Pakistan, too, arrive with a youthful squad eager to make a mark.
As the Dubai showdown approaches, the external noise will not fade, but inside the Indian camp, the message is clear: stay calm, stay professional and let cricket do the talking.
