Swaraat / Thirumaal Arumugam
The relationship between India and Pakistan, two neighbours bound by history and divided by strife, has been volatile for decades. Once united by cricketing camaraderie, the ties have deteriorated due to continued cross-border terrorism, the Kashmir dispute, and repeated flashpoints that have left scars on both sides of the border esp. Bharat.
The recent Pahalgam terror attack, where 26 tourists lost their lives to infiltration by Pakistani terrorists, intensified the already fraught diplomatic environment.
The Asia Cup 2025 Match: Cricket or Complicity?
Yesterday, in Dubai, India faced Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025. The match was overshadowed not by scores, but by outrage and introspection. Why should India play Pakistan, critics asked, when political relations are at an all-time low, and when innocent Indians continue to be targeted by cross-border violence?
Social media erupted with condemnation, with #BoycottPakistan and #CricketOrCountry trending for hours. Politicians, activists, and bereaved families labeled the match an insult to national sentiment, martyrdom, and the memory of Pahalgam victims. Protests, effigy burnings and emotional appeals from widows of terror victims amplified the call for a complete boycott.
Handshake Snub
Sportsmanship Versus Solidarity
In a moment charged with symbolism, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav and his squad refused to engage in the customary post-match handshakes with their Pakistani counterparts.
When questioned, Suryakumar was clear: “Few things in life are ahead of sportsmanship. We stand with all the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and dedicate this win to our armed forces”. The Indian team exited straight to their dressing room, underscoring a divide that ran deeper than sport.
Pakistan’s captain skipped the presentation, and the palpable tension on the field reflected the emotion gripping millions across India and Pakistan.
Should BCCI Withdraw From Playing Pakistan?
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) finds itself at a crossroads. On one hand, the BCCI asserts that multilateral tournaments like the Asia Cup are governed by the Asian Cricket Council and international sporting obligations. Missing or boycotting such matches could cost India dearly in terms of global sporting reputation, hosting prospects for international events, and contractual obligations. On the other hand, moral arguments abound—can sporting ties be separated from the reality of bloodshed, terrorism, and national security? Is cricket with Pakistan a tacit acceptance of business-as-usual, while soldiers and citizens pay the price?
Arguments For Boycott
National Sentiment: Playing Pakistan may undermine the feelings of those affected by terror attacks; cricket can wait, justice cannot.
Diplomatic Strategy: Boycott is a way of isolating Pakistan internationally, sending a strong message against its policies.
Moral Responsibility: Sportsmanship is noble, but support for terror is a red line.
Arguments Against Boycott
International Protocol: Withdrawal from scheduled matches could violate sports agreements and damage India’s standing in global sport.
Players’ Perspective: For athletes, sport is often a bridge, not a barrier. Many believe in keeping cricket and politics separate.
Public Unity: Cricket unites, even in times of discord—boycotting may further polarize public sentiment.
Conclusion:
Cricket Under the Shadow of Conflict
The Asia Cup 2025 match was more than a clash of bats and balls—it became a litmus test for India’s conscience. As handshakes were refused and debates raged, the country was forced to ask: where should lines be drawn between sport and national interest?For now, BCCI continues to walk the tightrope, playing by tournament rules while expressing solidarity with national sentiment. The question remains: can cricket ever truly transcend the politics of pain and patriotism?