'Why boycott WCL but play Pakistan in Asia Cup?': Ex-Pak cricketer questions India

Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has sparked debate by questioning India’s decision to participate in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, just a day after the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) released the tournament schedule.Taking to social media, Kaneria wrote: "Indian players boycotted WCL and called it national duty. But now Asia Cup vs Pakistan is just fine? If cricket with Pakistan is okay, then WCL should’ve been too. Stop using patriotism when it suits you. Let sport be sport — not propaganda."

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Kaneria’s remarks reference India’s withdrawal from a match against Pakistan during the World Championship of Legends (WCL) in July. The Indian side—comprising retired cricketers—had opted out citing national sentiment.Now, with India and Pakistan scheduled to meet in the group stage of the Asia Cup on September 14, questions have been raised about the consistency of India’s stance on cricketing ties with Pakistan.

The Asia Cup, scheduled from September 9 to 28 in the UAE, will be played in the T20I format as preparation for the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup. For the first time, the tournament will feature eight teams. Group A includes India, Pakistan, UAE, and Oman, while Group B consists of Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and Hong Kong.

India will also face UAE and Oman on September 10 and 19, respectively.

Depending on results, India and Pakistan could clash again in the Super Fours and potentially in the final on September 28.“Hosting the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025 in the UAE allows fans from across Asia to come together in a setting that mirrors our region’s incredible diversity,” said ACC President Mohsin Naqvi. “When crowds gather to witness the tournament’s unforgettable clashes, it will be a great reminder of cricket’s power to build bridges.”