The Indian Supreme Court on Thursday rejected a plea to ban the Asia Cup 2025 match between Pakistan and India, observing it was “just a match”.
A bench comprising Justice JK Maheshwari and Justice Vijay Bishnoi gave the remarks after activist Ketan Tirodkar approached the court, demanding that the September 14 clash in Dubai be declared unconstitutional.
Tirodkar argued that given the recent hostilities between the two countries, cricket ties should not continue. He also claimed the match violated Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty.
The judges dismissed the plea and made it clear they would not hear the matter.
Meanwhile, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) reiterated its stance that it follows the central government’s policy. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said India’s current policy did not restrict the team from participating in international or multi-nation tournaments.
Pakistan and India are both in Group A of the Asia Cup. The two sides are set to meet on September 14 in Dubai.