Sourav Ganguly Backs India-Pakistan Clash in Asia Cup, Urges Separation of Sports from Politics

NEW DELHI:Former Indian cricket captain **Sourav Ganguly** has voiced his support for the much-anticipated **India-Pakistan clash** in the upcoming **Asia Cup**, urging that **sports should continue despite political tensions**.

In an interview with **Indian media**, Ganguly emphasized that incidents like **Pahalgam** should not derail sporting events. “There should be no terrorism; it must be stopped. But cricket must go on,” he said, making a clear distinction between sports and politics.

Commenting on the Asia Cup draw, Ganguly said, “It’s perfectly fine for India and Pakistan to be placed in the same group. The game should happen.”

As per the **Asia Cup 2025 schedule**, announced on Saturday, **Pakistan, India, UAE**, and **Oman** are in **Group A**, while **Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan**, and **Hong Kong** form **Group B**. The tournament will kick off in the **UAE from September 9**, with the first **India vs Pakistan group-stage match scheduled for September 14**.

The two teams are expected to face each other **at least twice**, and possibly **a third time in the final**, depending on the progression of matches.

Meanwhile, **Indian media and former players** have reacted sharply to the announcement, with some **calling for a boycott** of matches against Pakistan due to ongoing political tensions. Critics have urged the Indian cricket board and government to reconsider the decision to play against Pakistan, similar to previous debates during global tournaments.

Despite rising criticism, Ganguly’s statement highlights the **importance of preserving sporting ties** as a bridge between nations, especially amid regional hostilities.