No censor and no hurdle is what has killed the anticipation for the high-stakes match between India and Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025, claims the former Pakistani Captain Rashid Latif ahead of the much-awaited encounter.
The India vs Pakistan match in the Asia Cup group stages was the result of a pre-signed deal between the broadcasters and the Asian Cricket Council. Just before the Asia Cup schedule was announced, India had given Pakistan a walkover in the World Championship of Legends, which led to claims of India boycotting cricket against Pakistan.
However, it was mentioned that BCCI has no control over the WCL, which is a private league. Pakistan players had then mocked the Indian board if they would do the same in the Asia Cup; however, it backfired.
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India agreed to play against Pakistan as per the Government policy
After speculations claimed that India might be considering pulling out of the Asia Cup due to the Pahalgam attack, which marked the death of innocent Indian civilians, and Pakistani militants were linked with the attack. India launched a military opposition against Pakistan, which further strained the relationship between the two nations.
The BCCI had constantly pinned its responsibility on the Indian government and decided to feature in the competition based on the Indian government’s policy. As per the Union Sports Ministry’s notification, India can play Pakistan in “international and multilateral events” but can’t engage in “bilateral sports events in each other’s country.”
Hence, India did not engage in the tournament just like that; it was a well-implemented plan with the Indian government’s permission.
India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 match’s anticipation was killed due to this reason
Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif believes that India’s decision to play against Pakistan in the Asia Cup killed the hype of the mega-contest. The match is scheduled to be played between the India and the Pakistan teams on the 14th of September.
“I’m surprised to know that this time, India agreed to play Pakistan very easily, and that’s why there is no hype around the match,” Latif told IANS. “Things get hyped when it is censored or there is any hurdle. The tickets are still selling in Dubai, and this is the first time.”
India vs Pakistan is a celebration at every part of the world, but not this time in Dubai
The 56-year-old former Pakistan skipper has added that whenever they have played across any country in ICC events, they have received immense support from the Indian team; however, the tickets being unsold till now is a rare sign.
“Otherwise, wherever they play, be it in Centurion, Sydney or in Chennai, it is a houseful every time. The people will surely come, and it will be a packed house. The ticket prices are also very high. However, the match will get hype from tomorrow, and it will be a good contest,” Latif added.
However, the ECB has reported that there have been no such issues, and the sale of tickets as well as the anticipation over the game is as always.
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