Kapil Dev Urges Fans to Stay Calm Ahead of Ind-Pak Asia Cup Clash
Former India captain says players should focus on the game while the government handles political matters, as Asia Cup 2025 unfolds in UAE
New Delhi, Sep 11: Former India captain and World Cup winner Kapil Dev has called for calm and perspective ahead of the highly anticipated India-Pakistan clash in the Asia Cup 2025, urging fans and media to avoid overhyping the contest.
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Kapil Dev stressed that players must concentrate on their performance, while political and diplomatic matters should be left to the government.
“Just go and win. Those whose job is to play should just focus on playing – there’s no need to say anything else. Don’t make this a big issue. The government will do its job, and the players should do theirs,” he said.
The remark comes amid recurring debates over whether India and Pakistan should face off on the cricket field, particularly after the recent Pahalgam attack. While bilateral cricket between the two nations has been suspended since 2012–13 due to political tensions, their encounters continue in ICC and ACC events.
India, the official host of the 17th Asia Cup, is defending its title in the UAE, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi staging the matches due to security concerns. India began their campaign with a dominant nine-wicket victory over hosts UAE, dismissing them for just 57 runs and chasing down the target in 27 balls.
Kapil Dev lauded the team’s performance, saying, “The team is very good and has secured an impressive victory. We hope they bring the trophy home.”
India last lifted the Asia Cup trophy in 2023, winning the ODI edition of the continental tournament.
