Kapil Dev urges for restraint before India vs Pakistan: Players should do their jobs

Former India captain and World Cup-winning legend Kapil Dev has called for restraint in the build-up to the much-anticipated India-Pakistan clash in the Asia Cup, urging fans and commentators not to let political tensions overshadow the game.

Since the Asia Cup schedule was released, debate has intensified over whether India and Pakistan should face each other in the tournament, particularly in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack. Calls to boycott the fixture have surfaced, but Kapil Dev has underlined that players must remain focused on the sport, while policy decisions 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,” Kapil said while speaking to the reporters on Thursday.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has consistently maintained that it is bound by the central government’s policy. As per this directive, India does not engage in bilateral cricket with Pakistan but continues to compete in multinational tournaments such as the Asia Cup, World Cups, and ICC events.

India and Pakistan last played a bilateral series in 2012-13, after which political tensions and security concerns halted all direct cricketing exchanges.

India began their campaign on a commanding note, defeating hosts UAE by nine wickets. The bowlers dismantled the opposition for just 57 runs in 79 balls before the chase was completed in only 27 deliveries. India also racked up their biggest T20I win after they won with 91 balls to spare.

Reacting to the result, Kapil Dev praised the team’s performance: “The team is very good and has secured an impressive victory. We hope they bring the trophy home.”

Pakistan will begin their campaign on Friday, September 12, against Jatinder Singh-led Oman at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.