In an exclusive interview, Indian pacer Mohammed Shami, who is currently active in the Duleep Trophy 2025, has shared his personal opinion on the highly debatable India vs Pakistan clash. Since the Pahalgam attack that killed 26 innocent civilians, netizens and former cricketers including Harbhajan Singh continue to appeal for a complete boycott, including a ban on matches against Pakistan. However, the Indian governemnt has already cleared the strict stance with drawing a line between bilateral and multilateral clashes regarding tournaments invovling Pakistan.
The next match between India and Pakistan is due on September 14, 2025 as a group stage match in T20 Asia Cup 2025 in the UAE. Claims for canceling this high-voltage clash surged as it became a matter of rift between two neighbouring countries with cross-border issues for a long time. The buzz has been only increasing around withdrawing this commercially profitable match after Operation Sindoor and India Legends pulling out of two clashes, including a semi-final in World Championship of Legends.
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India fast bowler Shami who often makes headlines for his distinct views presented a different angle to look at this clash. He mentioned that emotions can’t control cricket. Shami maintained his view that if the Indian government has given green light for India vs Pakistan clash for the multilateral tournament, cricketers need to obey the supreme command given by officials. He cited that his intention is not to chase controversies. It is far bettter to be in sync with the government and the authorities. Keeping emotions aside, a lot of other things are involved.
It will be first time when India and Pakistan will face each other in an international match after the Pahalgam attack. There has been no bilateral series for over a decade after rise in geopoiltical troubles.
Shami is set to miss Asia Cup 2025 after returning from a long injury induced lay-off for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 following the 2023 ODI World Cup. In Duleep Trophy 2025, he is representing East Zone to play against North Zone, as the 1st Quarter Final started on August 28 at BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground, Bengaluru.
