The match will be held in the backdrop of heightened tensions between two nations.
Ever since the Asia Cup 2025 schedule was announced in July, the BCCI has faced significant criticism for agreeing to play against Pakistan as the tensions between two nations are at an all-time high following the Pahalgam terror attack and retaliatory Operation Sindoor.
The arch-rivals are slated to square off on September 14 at the Dubai International Stadium in a Group A fixture. They might face each other twice more in the continental showpiece, provided both teams make it to the Super 4s and final.
On the eve of the high-stake clash, Sanjay Dwivedi, who lost his son in the Pahalgam terror attack, has raised his voice against the India versus Pakistan match in the Asia Cup.
Dwivedi urged the government to take action, citing the April terror attack that left 26 dead and the previous stance of cutting ties with Pakistan.
"On 22nd April 2025, Pakistan killed 26 innocent people of our country. The government of India had said that it would have no relations with Pakistan and that blood and water cannot flow together. Since the day I learned about the India vs Pakistan match, not just I but the entire country has been opposing it, saying there should be no relations, political or in the sports field, with Pakistan. I oppose this and urge the government to take action in this matter, keeping public sentiment in mind," Dwivedi told ANI.
The Indian board’s stand to play against Pakistan in the eight-team tournament aligns with the government's policy.
As per the Union Sports Ministry's notification issued last month, India can play Pakistan in "international and multilateral events", but can't engage in "bilateral sports events in each other's country".
India registered a commanding nine-wicket victory in their Asia Cup opener against the UAE on Wednesday (September 10). After the fixture against Pakistan, the Men in Blue will play their final group stage match against Oman on September 19 in Abu Dhabi.
After the group stage, the tournament will progress to the Super 4, where the top two teams from each group will qualify. If India finish at the top of Group A, all of their Super 4 matches will be held in Dubai.
If India finish second, one of their Super 4 games will be played in Abu Dhabi, and the remaining two in Dubai. The Super 4 stage will run from September 20 to 26. The tournament will conclude with the final on September 28.
(With ANI Inputs)