“IND will not play against PAK, I can say it with confidence” - Ex Indian player drops massive claim
Former Indian cricketer Kedar Jadhav strongly believes India will not play against Pakistan in the upcoming Asia Cup, which is scheduled to start on 9th September. Due to the current tension between the two nations, the tournament, which was earlier scheduled to take place in India, will now be held in the UAE. India, however, will remain the host of the competition. India are placed in the same group as Pakistan in the Asia Cup, and there's a possibility that the arch-rivals could face each other up to three times during the tournament. However, Kedar Jadhav reckons that the clash between India and Pakistan will not take place.
“I think the Indian team should not play at all. As far as India is concerned, I think that wherever India plays, it will always win, but this match should not be played at all, and they will not play. I can say this with confidence.” Kedhar Jadhav told AINS.
#WATCH | Pune: On India to face Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025, Former Indian Cricketer and BJP leader Kedar Jadhav says, "I think the Indian team should not play at all. As far as India is concerned, I think that wherever India plays, it will always win, but this match should not… pic.twitter.com/M83rUBXJnc
— ANI (@ANI) August 17, 2025
Kedar Jadhav’s last-over win in the Asia Cup 2018 final against Bangladesh is remembered as one of the best finishes of his career. Despite being injured, he held his nerve to chase down 6 runs in the last over with just three wickets in hand. The Indian batter hit the winning runs on the final ball to carry India to Asia Cup glory.
Asia Cup 2025 begins on 9th September 2025
A total of eight teams are participating in the 2025 Asia Cup. India finds itself in Group A, alongside Pakistan, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates. Group B comprises Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Hong Kong.
India won the last edition of the Asia Cup that took place in Sri Lanka in 2023. Mohammed Siraj produced a memorable spell of 6 for 21 to help India bundle out Sri Lanka for just 50 runs in the final. India won the game by 10 wickets and lifted the Asia Cup trophy for the eighth time in the tournament’s history.
