Legendary pacer Wasim Akram has delivered a compelling message as the India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 match looms large. Akram, speaking on the Stick With Cricket Podcast, affirmed that cricket should transcend political tensions, saying, “Asia Cup schedule is out, there is backlash. But we in Pakistan are calm. We will be fine whether we play or don’t play. The game must go on.”
Asia Cup 2025 Format and India-Pakistan Schedule
The 2025 Asia Cup is set to run from September 9 to 28 in the United Arab Emirates, featuring top Asian cricket teams in the T20I format. India will open their campaign against the UAE on September 10 in Dubai, with the high-voltage India vs Pakistan clash on September 14, also in Dubai. Should both teams progress, they may meet up to three times—including a possible final.
Akram’s Hope for Bilateral Cricket
Beyond the Asia Cup, Akram expressed his deep desire to witness a Test series between India and Pakistan. He said, “I hope to see a Test series between India and Pakistan in my lifetime.”
He also urged players and fans to focus on cricketing excellence rather than political conflicts. “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.”
Context: Strained Diplomacy and Cricket’s Role
Tensions between India and Pakistan have sharpened following the terrorist attacks in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives. India responded with Operation Sindoor, targeting terror infrastructure inside Pakistan and reportedly neutralizing over 100 terrorists linked to groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen.
Despite this difficult diplomatic backdrop, the ACC confirmed the Asia Cup will proceed in the UAE to ensure neutrality and safety for all teams.
What This Means for Cricket Fans
Akram’s statement sends a powerful message: cricket can unite even amid deep political divides. The Asia Cup’s scheduling in the neutral UAE promises a fair, high-stakes tournament that may well see India and Pakistan face off in a blockbuster clash.
Fans now wait for September 14 and beyond, hoping that cricket prevails and “the game must go on.”
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