NEW DELHI: Cricket’s fiercest rivalry returns as India and Pakistan prepare to face off in a highly anticipated Asia Cup match on September 14 in Dubai, marking their first meeting since the intense military conflict in May.

The eight-nation Asia Cup 2025, hosted in the UAE, kicks off Tuesday with Afghanistan vs Hong Kong in Abu Dhabi. But the spotlight is firmly on the India-Pakistan showdown—one that transcends sport and touches deep political sensitivities.

Tensions remain high after the deadly four-day border conflict in May, which saw over 70 fatalities in missile, drone, and artillery strikes.

While a ceasefire has held since, public sentiment continues to run hot. In a stark display of protest, India’s retired players boycotted matches against Pakistan during the World Championship of Legends in England earlier this year.

Cricketing legend Harbhajan Singh has echoed public sentiment, saying:

“It cannot be the case that there’s fighting on the border… and we go to play cricket. Until these big issues are resolved, cricket is a very small matter.”

Despite political tensions, the Asia Cup proceeds as planned, with India and Pakistan drawn in Group A alongside hosts UAE and Oman. They could face off as many as three times during the tournament, which concludes September 28.

The two Asian cricketing giants have been clubbed together in the same group and could potentially meet three times in the tournament, which concludes on September 28.

Asia Cup Format and Teams:

The five full members of the Asian Cricket Council—India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka—are joined by Hong Kong, Oman, and the UAE, who qualified via the ACC Men’s Premier Cup.

Group A: India, Pakistan, UAE, Oman

Group B: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Hong Kong

After the group stage, the top two teams from each group progress to the Super Four, culminating in the final in Dubai.

A Game Beyond Boundaries:

While cricket fans await the high-octane contest, experts and former players like Wasim Akram urge restraint and dignity:

“Players and fans from both sides should remain disciplined and not cross the line.”

As emotions surge and boundaries blur between sport and politics, the Asia Cup promises not just thrilling cricket—but a test of maturity, unity, and the power of sport in divided times.