Sunil Gavaskar has ruffled a lot of feathers in Pakistani cricket community with his remark about Pakistan and the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 tournament. The tournament is slated to held in September, mostly at a neutral venue with India as hosts.
Gavaskar told a television channel that given the current political situation, Pakistan was unlikely to participate in the tournament, which will be probably co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. He stated that the BCCI has always followed the Indian government's directions, implying that political issues could prohibit Pakistan from participating in the event
Tensions between the two countries have escalated following a devastating attack on tourists in Kashmir that killed 26 people. India has accused Pakistan of assisting terrorists, suspended the long-standing Indus Water Treaty, and hinted at greater retaliation.
Several former Pakistani cricketers, including great batter Javed Miandad, have expressed deep unhappiness with Indian cricket icon Sunil Gavaskar's recent statements against Pakistan's participation in the 2025 Asia Cup.
Miandad responded to Gavaskar's comments with incredulity. He told telecomasia.net: “I can't believe Sunny bhai said this. He's a respectful, down-to-earth person who always stayed away from politics.”
Former spinner Iqbal Qasim echoed the sentiment, saying he initially thought the statement was misattributed.
“Gavaskar is a responsible figure loved on both sides of the border. Politics should not mix with sports,” he stated.
On the other hand, Basit Ali had a harsher stance and called Gavaskar’s comment ‘stupid’. He further urged for evidence before leveling accusations.
“Let the investigation conclude. Cricket should remain above political hostilities,” he added.
Ex-leg-spinner Mushtaq Ahmed stressed the need for level-headedness from legendary players and said: “Never decide in anger that forces you to regret.”
ODI captain Mohammad Rizwan maintained a neutral stance, reaffirming his long-held view that cricket between India and Pakistan must continue. “Whatever happens politically, cricket should go on,” he said.
(IANS inputs)
