Ahead of the Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 match between India and Pakistan in Dubai, attention has been drawn to India head coach Gautam Gambhir’s past and recent statements regarding cricket matches between the two nations.
In May 2025, following the Pahalgam terror attack which resulted in 26 fatalities, Gambhir publicly stated his personal belief that India should “absolutely no” play Pakistan until terrorism ceases. He underscored the importance of Indian lives over sporting interactions and indicated that the ultimate decision rested with the government.
However, prior to an earlier Asia Cup fixture against Pakistan—the first encounter after the Pahalgam incident—Gambhir reportedly delivered a “pep talk” to the team. Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate confirmed that Gambhir addressed the existing public “sentiments and strong feelings” surrounding the match within the team meeting.
Source: indianexpress.com