The much-anticipated India vs Pakistan cricket rivalry will reignite at the Asia Cup 2025, with the first clash scheduled for September 14. Should both teams advance to the Super 4 stage, they are set to meet again on September 21. While the two nations have not played a bilateral series since 2013, clashes in multi-nation tournaments like the Asia Cup and ICC World Cups have kept the rivalry alive.
Rising political tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025 and subsequent cross-border hostilities added uncertainty to the fixture. Questions arose over India’s participation in the Asia Cup encounter against Pakistan, given the Sports Ministry’s recent announcement that India and Pakistan will not engage in bilateral sporting ties—even on neutral grounds—under a new policy.
However, the multilateral nature of the Asia Cup ensures that both teams will compete, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. Adding to the buzz, a viral clip of Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf shows him confidently declaring, “Dono apne hain, Inshallah” (Both matches are ours, God willing), reflecting the competitive spirit ahead of the contests.
Haris Rauf on Pakistan vs India. 🇵🇰🔥 pic.twitter.com/1nywqFxGou
— Sheri. (@CallMeSheri1_) August 24, 2025
Legendary former Pakistan fast bowler Wasim Akram weighed in on the upcoming clashes, urging fans of both nations to remain disciplined and respectful. Akram also voiced his desire for India and Pakistan to resume Test cricket in the future.
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“I am sure these matches will be entertaining, just like all other India-Pakistan matches. But I hope both the players and the fans will remain disciplined and not cross the line,” Wasim Akram told Telecom Asia Sport.
Akram further highlighted the intensity of the rivalry from a fan perspective: “If Indians are patriotic and want their team to win, the same goes for Pakistani fans.” Despite the political tension, Akram believes India enters the contest as favourites, citing their recent form. “India have been in better form recently and will start as favourites, but the team that handles pressure best on the day will win,” he added.
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With these high-stakes encounters looming, cricket enthusiasts across the globe eagerly await the thrilling India-Pakistan battles, which could see the teams clash up to three times in just 14 days, promising fireworks both on and off the field.
