Former Indian cricketer and IPL winner Manoj Tiwary has vehemently opposed the scheduled India vs. Pakistan match in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, questioning the rationale behind playing cricket with a nation against whom “Operation Sindoor” is still in effect, as stated by the Prime Minister. His strong remarks come amidst heightened tensions following recent terror attacks.
The Controversial Fixture and Rising Tensions
The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) recently announced the schedule for the Asia Cup 2025, to be held in the UAE from September 9 to 28. The much-anticipated India-Pakistan clash is slated for September 14. This announcement has ignited significant debate and public outrage in India, particularly in the aftermath of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which resulted in civilian casualties.
“Operation Sindoor”: A Symbol of India’s Retaliatory Stand
“Operation Sindoor” refers to India’s recent military operation, initiated on May 7, 2025, as a retaliatory strike against terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir (PoJK) following the Pahalgam attack. Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has stated that the operation was “paused” after achieving its objectives but warned that it could resume if Pakistan engages in any further “misadventure.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself has emphasized that “Operation Sindoor is only on pause.”
The naming of the operation “Sindoor” itself carries deep symbolic significance in India, representing a strong cultural and emotional statement against terrorism, particularly in defense of Indian women affected by such acts. The operation also notably featured women officers in prominent roles during its public briefings, further underscoring its symbolic weight.
Tiwary’s Outcry: “How Can We Play a Match?”
Manoj Tiwary, speaking to ANI, voiced his strong disapproval of the match. “I am against it. The India-Pakistan match should not be held, especially after the terrorist attack in Pahalgam in which civilians have been killed. After that, Operation Sindoor has taken place,” he asserted.
He further questioned, “The situation was so bad, how can we think of an India-Pakistan match? I feel that it should be reconsidered, and the India-Pakistan match should not happen in such an environment.” Tiwary directly referenced the Prime Minister’s recent statement, saying, “Our Prime Minister is saying Operation Sindoor is still going on… How can we play a match with Pakistan?”
Contrasting Views: “Sport Must Go On”
While Tiwary’s stance echoes a significant segment of public sentiment, not all former cricketers share his view. Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly, while condemning terrorism, offered a more measured perspective, emphasizing that “Sport must go on.”
Despite the growing protests and calls for reconsideration, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has confirmed the schedule. India and Pakistan are in Group A, alongside UAE and Oman. The potential for multiple India-Pakistan encounters exists, including in the Super Four stage and even the final, should both teams progress. The BCCI has reportedly given its nod for the tournament, citing obligations within the ACC framework. However, the debate continues to rage, reflecting the complex interplay of sports, politics, and national sentiment in the subcontinent.
