India vs Pak Asia Cup 2025: Suniel Shetty reacts to boycott calls after Pahalgam attack, says ‘don’t blame…’
GH News September 14, 2025 11:06 PM

Whenever India and Pakistan face each other on the cricket field the game becomes more than just runs and wickets—it becomes a contest of emotions nationalism and pride. Millions of fans on both sides of the border eagerly wait for the clash and the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 fixture on Sunday is no exception.
However this year the atmosphere is more tense than usual. The shadow of the terror attack in Pahalgam Jammu and Kashmir earlier this April followed by India’s military retaliation through ‘Operation Sindoor’ has created an undercurrent of unease. Some groups on social media have even called for a boycott of the India-Pakistan match sparking heated debates.
What did Suniel Shetty say?
Amid this backdrop Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty has spoken up sharing a balanced perspective on the issue.
Shetty said that while people are free to hold their opinions about whether such matches should take place blaming the players or sports authorities is unfair.
“This is an international sporting event organized by a world sporting body. It involves multiple nations athletes and disciplines. Rules and commitments must be respected” Shetty explained.
He emphasized that players are simply fulfilling their duty by representing their country on the global stage. They do not decide fixtures or tournaments and hence they should not be targeted.
Watching the match is a personal choice!
Shetty further underlined the idea of personal freedom in deciding whether or not to watch the high-stakes encounter.
“If someone doesn’t want to watch the match they shouldn’t. That’s a personal decision” he said.
However he warned against spreading hatred or disrupting the spirit of sportsmanship. According to him cricket and sports in general should remain a bridge between people not a tool for division.
When and where is the match happening?
The much-awaited India vs Pakistan match will be played on Sunday at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
Toss: 7:30 PM IST
Match start: 8:00 PM IST
Live telecast: Sony Sports Network channels
Online streaming: SonyLIV and FanCode app
As always millions are expected to tune in despite the controversies proving once again that cricket remains a powerful unifier across borders.
Highlights:
Suniel Shetty says India-Pakistan players should not be blamed for political tensions.
Calls watching or boycotting the match a personal decision not something to be forced.
Asia Cup 2025 clash to be played on Sunday in Dubai live on Sony Sports and SonyLIV.