The stage is set for the biggest fixture in world cricket – India vs Pakistan, as part of the Asia Cup 2025, taking place on September 14 at the Dubai International Stadium. But while the anticipation is high, this year’s edition of the marquee clash carries a different kind of tension – one that goes far beyond the boundary ropes.
For fans across the globe, an India-Pakistan match is nothing short of a festival. The passion, pressure, and pride that define this rivalry are unparalleled. However, this time around, the emotional weight of recent events has cast a shadow over the game, particularly among Indian fans.
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A Match in the Aftermath of Operation Sindoor
The match comes just weeks after the tragic Pahalgam terrorist attack, which claimed the lives of several Indian soldiers. In response, India launched ‘Operation Sindoor’, heightening public sentiment and intensifying the already sensitive relationship between the two nations.
As a result, calls to boycott the India-Pakistan match have grown louder. Social media is flooded with opinions, and several public figures – including former cricketers have voiced their stance against the match going ahead.
“There Should Be No Cricket or Business”: Harbhajan Singh
One of the strongest voices to speak out has been that of former India spinner Harbhajan Singh. Reiterating his long-standing stance, Harbhajan questioned the logic of continuing sporting ties in such a political climate.
“India-Pakistan match is always in the headlines. But after Operation Sindoor, everyone said that there should be no cricket and no business,” Harbhajan said.
“Until the relations between the two countries are good, there should be no cricket matches and any kind of business, and this is my thinking,” he added.
His protest isn’t new – Harbhajan had also boycotted the India vs Pakistan clash in the World Championship of Legends 2025, where several Indian legends refused to play against their Pakistani counterparts in a symbolic show of solidarity with national sentiment.
IND vs PAK Match Details – When and Where to Watch
Despite the political backdrop, the match is scheduled to go ahead as planned, and fans who choose to tune in can catch all the action live.
- Date: Saturday, September 14
- Venue: Dubai International Stadium
- Match Start Time: 8:00 PM IST
- Toss Timing: 7:30 PM IST
- Telecast: Sony Sports Network
- Live Streaming: Sony Liv app & Fan Code
Team India will be led by Suryakumar Yadav, while Salman Agha will captain Pakistan.
Emotions High, Stakes Higher
This isn’t just another cricket match – it’s a collision of pride, politics, and patriotism. While the players will be focused on the 22 yards in front of them, the emotional temperature outside the stadium will be far more intense.
For many fans, this match goes beyond cricket. It’s about identity, memory, and the hope or belief that sport can be both a unifier and a statement.
Whether you’re cheering for India or Pakistan, one thing is certain: this September 14 clash will be remembered for much more than just cricketing drama.