Former Pakistan cricket captain Inzamam-ul-Haq has voiced his strong support for the much-anticipated India vs Pakistan clash in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, saying such high-profile encounters not only thrill fans but also help improve relations between the two rival nations.
Speaking to the media at a local event in Karachi on Wednesday, Inzamam emphasized that cricket can play a significant role in bridging political gaps.
“High-profile matches between arch-rivals are always appreciated,” Inzamam said. “These continued cricketing ties could pave the way for improved relations and dialogue between the two countries.”
Inzamam’s comments come at a time when tensions between India and Pakistan off the field often affect sporting relations. However, both countries have agreed to face off in the Asia Cup 2025, which will be played in the T20 format as a preparation for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
India vs Pakistan: The Biggest Rivalry in Cricket
The fixture between Pakistan and India is scheduled for September 14, and fans around the world are eagerly waiting for what promises to be an electric atmosphere. The match will be part of Group A, which also includes UAE and Oman. Group B features Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and Hong Kong.
Inzamam praised the decision of both cricket boards to maintain cricketing relations despite political friction.
“This is more than just a game,” he added. “It’s an opportunity to bring people together and start conversations that matter.”
Full Schedule of Asia Cup 2025 (T20 Format)
Group Stage Matches:
- 9 Sep – Afghanistan vs Hong Kong
- 10 Sep – India vs UAE
- 11 Sep – Bangladesh vs Hong Kong
- 12 Sep – Pakistan vs Oman
- 13 Sep – Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka
- 14 Sep – India vs Pakistan
- 15 Sep – UAE vs Oman, Sri Lanka vs Hong Kong
- 16 Sep – Bangladesh vs Afghanistan
- 17 Sep – Pakistan vs UAE
- 18 Sep – Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan
- 19 Sep – India vs Oman
Super Four Stage:
- 20 Sep – B1 vs B2
- 21 Sep – A1 vs A2
- 23 Sep – A2 vs B1
- 24 Sep – A1 vs B2
- 25 Sep – A2 vs B2
- 26 Sep – A1 vs B1
- 28 Sep – Final
Cricket for Diplomacy
This isn’t the first time cricket has been used as a tool for diplomacy between the two nations. From cricket tours to World Cup clashes, the sport has often helped de-escalate tensions and create opportunities for dialogue.
Inzamam, who has represented Pakistan in over 120 Tests and 370 ODIs, said that “sport has the power to connect hearts” and hoped the Asia Cup would serve that role again.
