The decision to include both India and Pakistan in the same group for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 tournament hasn’t gone down too well with the fans. In light of the recent Pahalgam attacks and the military escalation that soon followed thereafter, tension between the two neighbours has been at an all-time high. Mistrust, resentment, and bitterness towards one another have been rampant.

While many Indian fans are not in favor of seeing this marquee clash unfold, former Indian Test captain Mohammed Azharuddin did not hold himself back either. Azharuddin does not seem to be in favor of this clash and questions the timing and context of it, given what had transpired earlier this year.

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Azharuddin calls for a consistent approach while maintaining sporting relations

While interacting with IANS, Azharuddin made references to the cross-border tensions that have prevailed between the two neighbours for quite a while now, and strongly feels that the timing of this clash is just not right.

“Looking at the current situation in the country, we shouldn’t be playing this match. Everyone is aware of the issues we are facing. And if we have to play, then we should play every sport—not just by picking and choosing.”

Besides, he also added that a more uniform approach must be put in place. Should India choose to boycott Pakistan in one sport, then the same principle must apply across all sports and should spread to all genders and age groups. Previously, the high-octane WCL clash between India and Pakistan Champions was called off due to unresolved political differences. However, a similar boycott has not been seen in India’s Asia Cup clash with Pakistan.

While stating his personal views, Azharuddin later clarified that the final decision rests with the government and the BCCI.

“In the end, it’s the government that will decide whether we should play or not. The decision made by the board, the government, and BCCI will be final. Until the problem is resolved, we shouldn’t move forward.”

Neither India nor Pakistan have engaged in bilateral cricket since 2012. India’s last visit to the neighboring nation was in the year 2008. Besides, the latest military clash in May has further strained the already-sour relations between the two nuclear-armed nations. Tensions have been at their peak, and the long-standing political differences aren’t going to vanish away any time soon.

The former India captain, Mohammad Azharuddin, has slammed some serious allegations on the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) after the completion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season. Throughout the edition of the event, the HCA was questioning the ticket-selling process off the field and providing different pitches to the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) than their desire.

Azharuddin claimed that he had been deeply disturbed by the ongoing ticket scam during the IPL and the corruption within the HCA. According to him, the current body ‘must be held accountable’ for the entire scenario. He also urged a thorough investigation and later immediate action on the administration of the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA), as it would be the time to clean them up.

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“I am deeply disturbed by the ongoing IPL ticket scam and rampant corruption within the Hyderabad Cricket Association. The current HCA body has failed its duty and must be held accountable. I urge immediate action, a thorough investigation, and the disbandment of the current HCA administration. It’s time to clean up the system and restore integrity to Hyderabad cricket.”

Mohammed Azharuddin slams serious allegations of scams on HCA

A few days ago, Azharuddin reckoned that he had a few plans to approach the Telangana High Court, seeking an order on the HCA to remove his name from the North stand at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium. The petition accused the veteran player of abusing the association’s authority by making arbitrary decisions. It also stated that the experienced campaigner, who played 99 Tests and 334 ODIs, breached the HCA rules.

I am deeply disturbed by the ongoing IPL ticket scam and rampant corruption within the Hyderabad Cricket Association. The current HCA body has failed its duty and must be held accountable.

I urge immediate action, a thorough investigation, and the disbandment of the current HCA…

— Mohammed Azharuddin (@azharflicks) July 9, 2025

They informed that Azharuddin attended an Apex Council meeting as the former HCA president to secure a resolution in December 2019. But that happened just months after taking on the role of the association chief. The right-handed batter scored 15593 runs with 29 hundreds and 79 fifties across formats, as his last international appearance was during a 50-over contest against Pakistan in 2000.

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), the runners-up of the 2024 season, didn’t enjoy a great time in the recent season. Under Pat Cummins’ leadership, they finished in the sixth position in the points table, thanks to six victories in 14 encounters at a net run rate of -0.376. They will also hope to bring development in both the batting and bowling departments next year.