Former India all-rounder Kedar Jadhav, who recently joined the BJP, has sparked a major debate ahead of the Asia Cup 2025. Speaking confidently, he said the much-awaited India vs Pakistan clash on September 14 in Dubai “will not happen.”
Why Jadhav Feels This Way
Jadhav’s remarks came in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed over 26 lives. He argued that facing Pakistan on the field so soon would go against the national mood. India’s military response, Operation Sindoor, he framed his stance not as a cricketing decision but as one rooted in national sentiment.
The Official Picture
According to the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), the Asia Cup 2025 will run from September 9–28 in the UAE. India and Pakistan are drawn together in Group A, making their September 14 clash one of the most anticipated matches of the year. There is also a possibility that the two teams could meet again in the later stages of the tournament.
Divided Opinions
Jadhav’s bold statement has sharply divided opinion. Some political voices and fans back his call, saying a boycott would reflect the seriousness of the current situation. Others argue that sport should remain separate from politics and stress that millions of fans worldwide are eagerly waiting for the iconic encounter.
The Bigger Question
For years, the India–Pakistan rivalry has been the showpiece of any tournament. But this time, the spotlight is on more than cricket. With security concerns and political pressure looming large, the real suspense is whether September 14 will bring a historic clash — or another chapter of off-field controversy.
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