Asia Cup 2025: Suryakumar Yadav & Co to carry black armbands for IND vs PAK clash

The most anticipated clash of the Asia Cup 2025 is set to take place on Sunday, September 14, when India face their arch-rivals Pakistan. Over the past decade, the two nations have crossed paths only in multinational and global tournaments, with bilateral cricket ties remaining suspended. According to media reports, the Suryakumar Yadav-led Indian team may wear black armbands during the match as a symbol of protest.

This group-stage fixture carries significance beyond cricket. Following the Pahalgam terror attack and the subsequent escalation in military tensions, questions have been raised on whether India and Pakistan should continue to meet in tournaments sanctioned by the Asian Cricket Council and ICC. The clash is scheduled at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, where overt fan demonstrations are unlikely. However, symbolic gestures on the field, such as handshake refusals or the wearing of armbands, could mark the Indian team’s silent protest.

The political backdrop has also triggered a section of fans and individuals to call for a boycott of the match. Critics argue that both the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the players should avoid any engagement with Pakistan. This boycott narrative has reportedly had some impact on the Indian camp, with sources suggesting a subdued atmosphere among players in Dubai.

Senior BCCI officials are well aware of the prevailing public sentiment. For the board and the team, the upcoming encounter is more than just a group-stage game, it represents an opportunity to convey a message that mirrors the emotions of the Indian people. India’s assistant coach, Ryan ten Doeschate, reflected this mood, acknowledging the sensitivity of the occasion and its importance beyond the cricketing field.

"We are aware of the sentiments and the strong feelings. And Gauti (Gautam Gambhir, head coach)'s message has just been very professional, about not worrying about things that are not in our control. I have no doubt the players share the compassion and feeling of the vast majority of the Indian public,” said ten Doeschate in the pre-match press conference.