India began their campaign at the Asia Cup 2025 with a nine wicket win against United Arab Emirates. In the match played in Dubai on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, showcasing their intent to retain the title won in the ODI format in 2023. The Indian team’s next assignment in the group stage of the tournament is the game against Pakistan. The high-voltage clash, a centerpiece of the tournament, has once again brought cricketing rivalry into the spotlight, tempered by the complex political dynamics between the two nations.
The much-anticipated India-Pakistan clash in the Asia Cup 2025 has reignited debates about cricketing ties between the two nations, with former India cricketer and 1983 World Cup winning captain Kapil Dev reportedly calling for restraint and focus on the game. Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Kapil Dev downplayed the hype surrounding the encounter, urging stakeholders not to amplify the issue. “Just go and win. Those whose job is to play should just focus on playing, there's no need to say anything else. Don’t make this a big issue. The government will do its job, and the players should do theirs,” he said, reportedly emphasizing a separation between sport and politics.
We hope they bring the trophy home: Kapil Dev
India’s opening match against the UAE set a commanding tone for their campaign. The defending champions bowled out the hosts for a paltry 57 runs in just 79 balls, before chasing down the target in a mere 27 balls, losing only one wicket. Reflecting on the victory, Kapil Dev reportedly praised the team’s effort, saying, “The team is very good and has secured an impressive victory. We hope they bring the trophy home,” he said. His optimism reportedly resonates with fans who see India as strong contenders, given their rich history in the tournament, having won it eight times, including the 2023 edition.
The India-Pakistan rivalry, while rooted in cricketing excellence, is amplified by the socio-political context. India and Pakistan have not played a bilateral cricket series since 2012–13, with political tensions and security concerns halting direct cricketing exchanges. Their encounters are now confined to multinational tournaments organized by the International Cricket Council (ICC) or the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), such as the World Cup and the Asia Cup. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has consistently adhered to the Indian government’s policy, which permits participation in such events but prohibits bilateral series with Pakistan. This stance has been reaffirmed in the wake of recent events, including the Pahalgam attack, which has further strained relations between the two neighbors.
