India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak addressed the team’s approach to playing against Pakistan amid ongoing boycott calls. He emphasized that the squad is concentrating solely on preparing for the match and putting their performance on the field first, leaving external controversies aside.
Kotak Emphasises Focus Amid India-Pakistan Asia Cup Controversy
Team India’s assistant coach Sitanshu Kotak has reiterated that the squad’s focus remains on performing against Pakistan in the Group A match of the Men’s Asia Cup 2025 on Sunday at the Dubai International Stadium. He stressed that there is no room for distractions from outside noise within the camp.
As the match approaches, calls for a boycott have intensified, with many fans in India expressing displeasure over the decision to play Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor. Social media is abuzz with criticism of the BCCI for agreeing to the fixture despite national sentiment.
Before the tournament, the Indian government clarified its policy, permitting teams to face Pakistan in multilateral events. After the Pahalgam attack, which killed 26 tourists, India launched Operation Sindoor targeting terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Many expected India to take a firm stand in multi-nation tournaments, but the Asia Cup schedule proved otherwise.
India could potentially face Pakistan three times in this edition of the Asia Cup—first in the group stage on Sunday, then in the Super 4s, and possibly in the final. Kotak emphasised that the team must stay focused on the game rather than external controversies.
“I think for players and us, once the BCCI says and they are aligned with the government, we are here to prepare and play. It will be a competitive game. IND vs Pak is always competitive, so we would rather focus on that,” he added.
The handshake saga
Earlier this week, India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav faced trolling and criticism on social media after a video emerged showing him shaking hands with Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha during the official captain’s press conference. Suryakumar was also seen greeting Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President Mohsin Naqvi. Following India’s game against the UAE, he spoke about his team’s excitement to play Pakistan in the Asia Cup.
Reports suggest that ticket sales for the upcoming India-Pakistan clash are underwhelming, with many seats still available. Several prominent social media handles in India have confirmed via X that they plan to boycott the match. With the current public mood, it remains uncertain whether television ratings will soar or see a decline during the highly anticipated contest.