Uddhav Thackeray Calls for Boycott of Asia Cup Final Against Pakistan
As the Indian cricket team prepares to face Pakistan in the Asia Cup final, Uddhav Thackeray has called for a boycott of the match. Referencing Prime Minister Modi's previous comments about dealing with Pakistan, Thackeray criticized the government for allowing the match to proceed. This comes after India has already faced Pakistan twice in the tournament, raising questions about the government's stance on cricketing ties with its neighbor. The Board of Control for Cricket in India has defended its position, stating that matches with Pakistan occur only in multilateral events. Discover more about this unfolding controversy.
Sep 27, 2025, 16:24 IST
Call for Boycott of the Asia Cup Final
The Indian cricket team is set to face Pakistan in the Asia Cup final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. In light of this, Uddhav Thackeray, the former Chief Minister of Maharashtra, along with others, has urged a boycott of the match. During a press conference in Mumbai on Saturday, the Shiv Sena-UBT leader referenced an old interview with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, advocating for the boycott. Thackeray asserted that Modi had stated Pakistan should be taught a lesson in a language it understands. He criticized the central government for allowing the Indian cricket team to compete against Pakistan.
Thackeray's Remarks on Modi's Interview
Thackeray expressed his disappointment during the press conference, recalling that before Modi became Prime Minister, he had told journalist Rajat Sharma in an interview that Pakistan should be dealt with in a manner it comprehends. He remarked, 'Pakistan attacks us, yet we go to the USA to lodge complaints.' India first played against Pakistan in the Asia Cup on September 14, where the Indian team triumphed by seven wickets. Subsequently, both teams clashed again on September 21 in the Super Four stage, with India winning by six wickets.
Upcoming Final and Controversies
Now, both teams are set to meet again on Sunday in the Asia Cup final in Dubai. Despite India having played Pakistan twice in this tournament, opposition parties have consistently accused the government of applying 'double standards' by allowing the Indian team to play against Pakistan. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) defended its stance, stating that India only competes with Pakistan in multilateral or ICC events and does not engage in any bilateral series.