“Until relations between the two countries improve” - Harbhajan Singh opens up ahead of India vs Pakistan clash in Asia Cup 2025

Former Indian cricketer and commentator Harbhajan Singh has stated that India shouldn’t play against Pakistan until relations between both countries improve. Notably, the former spinner’s comments came ahead of India’s clash against Pakistan in the ongoing Asia Cup 2025, on Sunday, September 14.

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It’s important to note that this will be the first time India, led by Suryakumar Yadav, is facing Salman Ali Agha-led Pakistan since Operation Sindoor, India’s response to terror groups in Pakistan after the Pahalgam attack in April 2025. 

"India-Pakistan matches always come into the limelight, but after Operation Sindoor, everyone said there should be no cricket and no business. We were playing the World Championship of Legends, but we did not play that match against Pakistan,” Harbhajan told the media during a Society magazine event.

For the unversed, the Indian government came up with a policy of suspending bilateral sporting ties with Pakistan. However, they have given the green signal to face them in multilateral events. The former Indian spinner reacted to the government policy. 

"Everyone has their own way of thinking and understanding, but I feel that until relations between the two countries improve, cricket and business should not take place either. But that is my thought. If the government says the match can happen, it should happen, but the relations between the two countries should be better,” he added.

Furthermore, Bhajji also heaped praise on the Indian T20I side, led by Suryakumar Yadav, stating that only the Indian team itself can defeat the Indian team, adding that Indian cricket is at a different level despite the absence of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.

"If there is any team that can beat the Indian team, it is the Indian team itself - it is such a strong side. Our cricket is at a different level. Even if Virat and Rohit are gone, the team is completely ready," he stated.

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"Playing in Dubai is almost like playing at home. The role of the spinners will be huge, and I hope the team brings the cup back," he concluded.

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