BY: Tripti Verma
The Asia Cup 2025 is set to take place from September 9 to 28. This year, the tournament will follow the T20 format. Although the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) is officially hosting the event, all matches will be played in the UAE. This is part of an agreement that India and Pakistan will only compete in neutral venues. The match, India vs Pakistan, is scheduled for September 14.
The excitement is high, and naturally so. India vs Pakistan is not just a match; it’s an emotional storm. The rivalry, the cheers, the pride, all this brings millions of viewers. Even the Indian government has stated that playing against Pakistan in global sports events is acceptable.
But where does the problem really lie?
Just a few weeks ago, Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan, reminded the nation that Operation Sindoor is still active. He clearly said, ‘There are no runners-up in war’. It was a bold statement, a reminder that India is still in a state of conflict with Pakistan, not just through words, but through action. And yet, preparations for a cricket match continue, as if everything is normal.
It raises a serious question, Is the focus more on TRPs, sponsorships, and entertainment than on national integrity? The recent terror attack in Pahalgam is still fresh. Our tri-services responded with strength and boldness. And now, just weeks later, a cricket match is being planned with the same country that fuels such attacks. What kind of message does this send to our armed forces? Let’s not forget, during the early days of Operation Sindoor, the government took a strict stand. Pakistani actors, singers, and influencers were banned. The message was on point that India stands united, and terrorism will not be tolerated in any form. But that message seems to be fading now.
Today, the BCCI, and some within the government, are supporting a sporting event with the same nation that has brought pain to countless Indian families. From 26/11 and Pulwama to Pahalgam, the list of attacks is long. People will say, ‘it’s just a game’, or ‘don’t mix politics with sports’. But let’s be honest. This is not just about cricket. It’s about national pride. Imagine the scene, fans from both countries waving flags, singing, and celebrating ‘the spirit of sportsmanship’. Now compare that with Indian soldiers, standing on the border, guarding the nation from the very enemy we’re about to shake hands with on the cricket field.
Does this match honour their sacrifice? Or is entertainment being chosen over national responsibility?
One must observe, why is Pakistan so eager to play? Is it just for money? Probably not. Their aim may be to spread a message, that India is not united in its stance, that most Indians enjoy their presence, and only a few oppose them. If the match goes well, it will be used as propaganda. International media will cover it. The BCCI will earn its profits. And the sacrifices of our soldiers will quietly be pushed aside, again.
This happens because we lack Shatrubodh, the awareness of who our enemy is, and what harm they can do, even when disguised behind entertainment or diplomacy. On one side, Indians take pride in India’s defence deals, modern weapons, and a strong military. On the other hand, the same Pakistan is welcomed on entertainment platforms for TRPs, headlines, and applause. Just a few months ago, the movie ‘Abir Gulal’, featuring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan and Indian actress Vaani Kapoor, created a huge public debate. Critics rightly asked, have we forgotten Pulwama, Uri, or the tears of Indian families, so now Bollywood started sponsoring them?
There are numerous examples. This is not the first time such an issue has come up. India must realise what the current situation demands. Yes, there are those who believe in the power of sports to build peace. That argument deserves respect, but peace must come with dignity, not by forgetting who attacked us.
It’s a moment of serious introspection for the Indian masses and all stakeholders, to decide where we stand at this crossroads between national interest and public entertainment.