Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi has written to the BCCI, appealing to them to reconsider India’s upcoming Asia Cup 2025 encounter on September 14 in Dubai, UAE. Citing border tensions between India and Pakistan, Gogoi stated that India shouldn’t be engaging with Pakistan on any platform, be it sports.

However, Gogoi contended that, in light of the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror assault, playing cricket at this time would "appear contrary to the national interest."

“While cricket has always been a sport that brings joy among people, in the context of current India and Pakistan relations, such engagements should not be prioritized over national interest,” Gogoi wrote in his letter to BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, as per PTI.

The president of the Assam Congress reminded the board of India's diplomatic initiatives, such as sending delegates overseas, to hold Pakistan responsible. He also recalled the Prime Minister's position during the Jammu and Kashmir incident.

Insisting that "cross-border tensions still persist" and that sports cannot be viewed in a vacuum, Gogoi emphasized the sacrifices made by Indian soldiers.

“Even our Honorable Prime Minister mentioned that water and blood cannot flow together. Engaging with Pakistan at this stage sends out a message that undermines the sentiments of the people of India who stand firmly against any compromise on national security,” Gogoi stated.

He further noted that Pakistan hasn’t sent their team to India for the upcoming Hockey Asia Cup tournament, citing security concerns, but cricketing relations in such circumstances could “dilute the seriousness of national concerns regarding security and diplomacy.”

Calling for a firm stand, Gogoi urged the BCCI to “avoid cricketing engagements with Pakistan until conditions are favorable and conducive to the nation’s interest.”

Apart from their September 14 match, India and Pakistan could also potentially meet twice more in the Asia Cup. Once in the Super 4s stage and then in the final on September 28.