Srabanti chatterjee

World Athletics Gold Label: With the India–Pakistan showdown looming large at the Asia Cup 2025, anticipation is at its peak as the two archrivals prepare to face off on Sunday in Abu Dhabi. Former India football captain Bhaichung Bhutia weighed in on the wider debate around government decisions in sport, calling for fairness across disciplines.

India, the defending champions after their 2023 triumph, began their campaign in style with a thumping nine-wicket win over UAE, while Pakistan will open against Oman before locking horns with India.

India’s participation in this tournament follows the Union Sports Ministry’s policy, which allows matches against Pakistan in “international and multilateral events,” but not in “bilateral sports events in each other’s country.” The regulation means that while Asia Cup fixtures are permitted, standalone series remain off the table.