As a result, there were doubts over whether India would participate in the Asia Cup 2025 fixture against Pakistan. The Sports Ministry last week declared that India and Pakistan will not engage in any bilateral sporting ties—even on neutral venues—under a new and unprecedented policy. However, the cricket team will not be prevented from playing in the Asia Cup next month, as it is a multilateral event.
Amidst all this, a video of Pakistan starhas gone viral. "Dono apne hain, Inshallah (Both matches are ours, God willing)," Rauf can be heard saying.
If both teams reach the final of the tournament, they could face each other as many as three times in the span of 14 days. Legendary former Pakistan fast bowler
has weighed in on the upcoming India-Pakistan clash, expressing his hope that fans from both nations remain "disciplined." Akram also voiced his desire to see the two countries play Test cricket against each other in the future.
"I am sure these matches will be entertaining, just like all other India-Pakistan matches. But I hope both the players and the fans will remain disciplined and not cross the line," Akram said in an interview withTelecom Asia Sport
.
"If Indians are patriotic and want their team to win, the same goes for Pakistani fans," he added.Although India and Pakistan have not played a bilateral series since 2013, they frequently meet in international tournaments like the World Cup or the Asia Cup. Akram stated that India will be the favourites heading into their first encounter."India have been in better form recently and will start as favourites, but the team that handles pressure best on the day will win," Akram concluded.