Union Minister Kiren Rijiju addressed concerns over India’s participation in the recent India vs Pakistan match in the Asia Cup, emphasizing that the fixture should not be misinterpreted as a bilateral cricket engagement. Speaking to reporters, Rijiju explained that India’s involvement in multi-nation tournaments follows global sporting protocols and is not a special arrangement with Pakistan.
“As far as this cricket match is concerned, it is not a bilateral game between India and Pakistan. If India does not play in the Asia Cup, then India will be out,” Rijiju said. He clarified that events such as the Olympics, Asian Games, Asian Championships, World Cup, and Asia Cup are multi-national platforms where all participating nations compete. “Pakistan has not been invited separately. The Olympics and the Asia Cup are not for Pakistan; they are for the whole world,” he added.
The minister acknowledged the strong emotions among citizens regarding India-Pakistan ties but urged rational thinking over sentiment. “The sentiment is right, but there should be rational thinking behind it. India is not playing a bilateral match with Pakistan separately,” Rijiju stated.
His remarks came amid ongoing debates on whether India should engage with Pakistan in any sporting format due to strained political relations. Rijiju’s clarification underscores that India’s participation in such tournaments aligns with international commitments, ensuring the nation’s athletes and teams remain competitive on the global stage while maintaining diplomatic priorities.
