IPL Chairman Backs India vs Pakistan Asia Cup Clash

Indian Premier League (IPL) Chairman Arun Dhumal has thrown his support behind Team India ahead of their highly anticipated Asia Cup 2025 encounter against Pakistan, scheduled for Sunday, September 14 at Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Despite mounting criticism and boycott calls from sections of fans, Dhumal emphasized that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is strictly adhering to the government’s official position on sporting relations with Pakistan.

BCCI Follows Government’s Clear Directive

The controversy surrounding the fixture intensified following the recent Pahalgam terrorist attack, which sparked widespread calls for boycotting the match. However, Dhumal firmly dismissed these criticisms, clarifying the board’s stance. “I would like to wish Team India all the best. I think the government has clarified its position. We are not going to play Pakistan, but we are going to play them in ACC/ICC events. So we will follow what the government says,” Dhumal stated to Times of India.

The government’s policy distinguishes between bilateral cricket series and multinational tournaments, permitting India-Pakistan encounters only in ICC and ACC organized events while maintaining restrictions on direct bilateral cricket engagement.

Captains Promise Aggressive Cricket

Both team captains have set expectations high for the upcoming contest. India captain Suryakumar Yadav and Pakistan captain Salman Agha have promised that their respective teams will display aggressive cricket, ensuring an entertaining spectacle for fans worldwide. The match represents a crucial fixture in the continental tournament, with both nations traditionally producing thrilling encounters that captivate cricket enthusiasts across the subcontinent and beyond.

The Dubai venue is expected to witness intense competition as both teams aim to assert their dominance in the Asia Cup 2025.