As anticipation builds for the high-voltage India vs Pakistan clash in the Asia Cup 2025, former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has stunned fans with a dramatic plea: he hopes India refuses to play against Pakistan, fearing a humiliating defeat for his own country.
What Sparked the Appeal?
- Pakistan suffered a crushing 202-run defeat against West Indies in the final ODI of their recent series.
- The team was bowled out for just 92 runs, triggering widespread criticism and concern over their form.
- Basit Ali, speaking on The Game Plan YouTube channel, said:
“I pray India refuses to play against Pakistan in the Asia Cup… India will beat us so badly you can’t even imagine”.
India vs Pakistan Match Details
- Date: September 14, 2025
- Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium
- Group: A (India, Pakistan, UAE, Oman)
- If both teams qualify, they could meet again in the Super Four and Final stages.
Political Tensions Add Fuel
- The appeal comes amid heightened India–Pakistan tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack and India’s cross-border retaliation.
- Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh also urged a boycott, saying:
“Cricket is a small matter compared to the sacrifice of our soldiers”.
Pakistan’s Recent Form
| Series | Result | Margin |
|---|---|---|
| vs West Indies | Lost 1–2 | Final ODI: Lost by 202 runs |
| vs USA (T20 WC 2024) | Lost | Group stage exit |
| vs India (T20 WC 2024) | Lost | June 9, 2024 |
Basit Ali’s comments reflect growing anxiety within Pakistan’s cricket circles, where losing to India is seen as more damaging than losing the tournament itself.
