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"Even Legends Refused": Amit Mishra Shares His Honest Opinion On IND-PAK Asia Cup Clash

Akshita Patel

Amit Mishra on Indo-Pak Asia Cup clash [Source: @Oam_16, @INDCricketGuide/X.com]Amit Mishra on Indo-Pak Asia Cup clash [Source: @Oam_16, @INDCricketGuide/X.com]

Ahead of the much-anticipated India-Pakistan clash at the Asia Cup 2025, former India leg-spinner Amit Mishra has strongly opposed the matchup amid rising tensions between the two countries. Mishra explained that public sentiments shouldn’t be hurt in the name of sport.

The row arose in the wake of the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, in which 26 tourists were targeted and killed by Pakistan-backed terrorists.

In response, India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, striking terror camps across the Line of Control. The move further deteriorated the strained relations between the two countries.

Amit Mishra Urges BCCI To Value Fans’ Sentiments

In the aftermath of this face-off, many fans and former cricketers have argued that India should not play Pakistan. When ANI asked about the upcoming Asia Cup clash, former Indian spinner Amit Mishra made a strong point, saying fans' sentiments are connected to the sport.

If the players continue to share the pitch with Pakistani players, it sends the wrong message. Mishra also used the example of WCL, where Indian legends withdrew from the Indo-Pak clash.

"Look, when we are playing cricket for India, our countrymen are connected to us as their emotions are connected to us. Even the India legends said that they won't play. Then Pakistan reached the finals and lost the title. Every cricketer is connected to their county. They are connected to their fans. Just like everyone loves their country, we also love our country, and whatever decision will be taken, it will be in the interest of the country," Mishra said.

During the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025 held earlier this year, the India Champions team refused to play Pakistan twice, once in the group stage and again in the semi-final. 

As a result, Pakistan advanced to the final, only to lose the title to South Africa. Not only that, but other former players, including Manoj Tiwary, have also publicly supported a boycott, insisting that cricket cannot be separated from national sentiment during such times.

What Did The Indian Central Government Say On The Issue?

The Indian government has made its position clear on sporting relations with Pakistan, confirming that while bilateral series remain suspended, India will face Pakistan in multi-nation tournaments like the Asia Cup and ICC events. This clears the path for the India-Pakistan clash on September 14 in Dubai during the Asia Cup 2025. 

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports stated that Indian athletes can compete in global events featuring Pakistan, and vice versa, but no bilateral tours will take place. Also, boycotting Pakistan will prove counterproductive to India's interests from a larger point of view since the country plans to host global events like the Olympics and Commonwealth Games in the future.