The 2025 Asia Cup will be remembered less for its cricket and more for the political tensions that overshadowed it, dominating headlines long after the tournament’s end. Amid the controversies, former Indian captain Kapil Dev has urged players to keep politics aside and let their performance speak.
Speaking to India Today, Kapil Dev, who led India to its first World Cup win in 1983, addressed the disputes sparked by Indian players — from refusing handshakes with Pakistanis to rejecting the Asia Cup trophy because it was to be presented by ACC chairman and PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi.
“Not shaking hands is no big deal. Refusing the trophy is also your choice. But you can’t keep dragging such issues. Let politicians handle politics,” Dev said, stressing that athletes must move on and focus on the game.
Kapil Dev that while patriotism is natural, players have a duty to uphold the spirit of sport and avoid fueling divisions, reminding that cricket has long been a bridge between India and Pakistan.
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