IND vs PAK Live: ‘Decision by Govt. is correct’

India and Pakistan are set to lock horns in their first Super Four clash of the Asia Cup 2025 today in Dubai, with the fixture attracting attention both on and off the field. Former India cricketer Kiran More weighed in on the controversy surrounding the high-profile encounter, dismissing critics of the fixture.

“…Several people have criticised India vs Pakistan matches. Had this been a bilateral series between India and Pakistan, then there would have been an issue. But this is Asia Cup… You have to play these matches. So, the decision taken by the Govt. is correct,” More said.

India enter the clash with momentum, having convincingly beaten Pakistan in the group stage. In that match, India chased 128 runs with seven wickets in hand, with spinner Kuldeep Yadav claiming 3/18 to earn ‘Player of the Match’ honours.

Yet, the off-field drama drew more attention, as skipper Suryakumar Yadav and Shivam Dube walked off without shaking hands, dedicating the win to Indian armed forces and victims of the Pahalgam terror attack.

Pakistan’s frustration continued, with skipper Salman Agha skipping the post-match presentation and the PCB filing a complaint against match referee Pycroft.

More emphasised that the Asia Cup context justified the fixture, despite all off-field controversies.

With India expected to continue their dominant brand of cricket, the pressure remains on Pakistan, whose unpredictable T20 side may seek to use the tensions as motivation for a stronger performance.