“Match Can Wait, First Improve Relations” – Harbhajan Singh’s Bold Statement Ahead of Asia Cup 2025

Former Cricketer Questions Cricketing Ties Amid Tense Relations

Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has stirred a fresh debate ahead of the high-voltage Asia Cup 2025 match between India and Pakistan, scheduled for September 14 in Dubai. Speaking at a media event in Mumbai hosted by Society Magazine, Harbhajan said that before facing each other on the cricket field, India and Pakistan must first work on improving diplomatic relations.

Match Set Amid Rising Tensions Post ‘Operation Sindoor’

The India vs Pakistan encounter in the Asia Cup 2025 will mark the first meeting between the two rivals after Operation Sindoor, an Indian military response launched earlier this year following a terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed the lives of 26 tourists. The situation has since led to heightened tensions and policy changes regarding bilateral engagements with Pakistan.

Harbhajan: “No Cricket or Trade Until Relations Improve”

Harbhajan Singh stated that cricket and trade should not continue unless there is a visible improvement in bilateral relations. He revealed that he personally chose not to play against Pakistan in a Legends World Championship match earlier this year, in protest of the Pahalgam incident.

“India vs Pakistan matches always make headlines, but after Operation Sindoor, the consensus was that there should be no cricket or business with Pakistan. We were playing the Legends Championship and we didn’t play that match,” he said.

Government’s Policy Respected, But Personal Stand Clear

While making his personal stance clear, Harbhajan also expressed his respect for the Indian government’s position. As per current policy, India does not engage in bilateral cricket with Pakistan, though matches continue in multilateral tournaments like ICC and ACC events.

“Everyone has their own understanding and perspective, but I believe that until relations improve, there should be no cricket or trade. That’s my personal view. If the government allows the match, then it should be played, but ideally, relations should improve first,” he added.

BCCI’s Delicate Balancing Act

Several former Indian cricketers have echoed similar sentiments in the past. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) finds itself in a difficult position. Fully boycotting Pakistan could lead to sanctions or bans by international bodies like the ICC or ACC. Hence, while bilateral ties remain frozen, India continues to participate against Pakistan in multinational tournaments.

Harbhajan Singh’s remarks have reignited the ongoing debate on whether cricket should be used as a diplomatic bridge or kept aside during times of national crisis. As the India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 clash approaches, public opinion remains divided between passion for cricket and patriotic sentiment.