Former India cricket captain Mohammad Azharuddin has expressed concerns about the upcoming India-Pakistan match in the Asia Cup T20 tournament, scheduled for September 14 at Dubai International Stadium, citing current cross-border tensions between the two nations including the recent Pahalgam terror attack and India’s Operation Sindoor.The Asia Cup will be held in the UAE from September 9 to 28, with India and Pakistan placed in Group A alongside UAE and Oman.“Looking at the current situation in the country, we shouldn’t be playing this match. Everyone is aware of the issues we are facing,” Azharuddin told IANS.“And if we have to play, then we should play every sport — not just by picking and choosing,” he added, referring to the lack of bilateral series between the two nations since 2012.Azharuddin emphasized that while these were his personal views, the final decision would rest with higher authorities. “In the end, it’s the government that will decide whether we should play or not. The decision made by the board, the government, and BCCI will be final.”“Until the problem is resolved, we shouldn’t move forward,” he stated, suggesting that cricket ties should remain suspended until political tensions ease.“No matter how much we say, ultimately, only what the government and BCCI want will happen. Whatever I am saying today, I’m saying it after careful thought and understanding,” Azharuddin concluded.
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The tournament will feature 19 matches across Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with BCCI serving as the official host.Both nations have agreed not to play on each other’s soil until at least 2027, leading to the selection of UAE as the neutral venue.India’s campaign begins against UAE on September 10, with a potential second encounter against Pakistan possible in the Super Four stage on September 21.Group B comprises Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Hong Kong.Teams will be permitted to field 17-member squads for the tournament.Despite the absence of bilateral cricket since 2012-13, India and Pakistan continue to face each other in ICC and ACC tournaments at neutral venues.