Javed Miandad Slams Sunil Gavaskar’s Asia Cup Boycott Call as ‘Stupid’

Javed Miandad Slams Sunil Gavaskar’s Asia Cup: Former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar recently slammed Pakistan after tensions flared between the two countries over the deadly terrorist attack in India’s Pahalgam, leaving 26 dead. Gavaskar made a controversial remark, indicating that the Pakistan team is unlikely to take part in the upcoming 2025 T20 Asia Cup in India later this year.

As one can expect, Gavaskar’s comments did not sit well with several former Pakistan cricketers, including Javed Miandad and Iqbal Qasim. While Miandad and Qasim took a diplomatic stance in their response, former middle-order batter Basit Ali launched a scathing attack on the legendary Indian cricketer.

Tensions between the two nations have flared following a deadly attack on tourists in Kashmir, which left 26 dead. India has blamed Pakistan for supporting the terrorists, suspended the long-standing Indus Water Treaty, and hinted at broader retaliatory actions.

Also Read: India Halts Water Flow to Pakistan from Chenab River Dam Amid Escalating Tensions

"I can't believe Sunny bhai said this. He's a respectful, down-to-earth person who always stayed away from politics," Miandad told telecomasia.net. Former Pakistan spinner Iqbal Qasim was equally surprised and said, "Gavaskar is a responsible figure loved on both sides of the border. Politics should not mix with sports."

Former spinner Iqbal Qasim echoed the sentiment, saying he initially thought the statement was misattributed. “Gavaskar is a responsible figure loved on both sides of the border. Politics should not mix with sports," he stated.

Former Pakistan leg-spinner Mushtaq Ahmed urged cricket legends to remain calm and composed in their decisions, citing Hazrat Ali (RA): "Never make a decision in anger, lest it lead to regret." He highlighted Pakistan's vital role in global cricket and cautioned against letting politics interfere with the sport.

Basit Ali took a harsher stance, calling the remarks “stupid" and urging for evidence before levelling accusations. “Let the investigation conclude. Cricket should remain above political hostilities," he added.

Also Read: India Imposes Total Import Ban on Pakistan After Pahalgam Attack Amid Escalating Tensions

"I'm not sure how things will unfold. The ACC might cease to exist, and we could see a tournament with just a few nations, like a three- or four-team event," Gavaskar had said.

He referred to India's decision earlier this year to play all their Champions Trophy matches in Dubai, including the final, where they defeated New Zealand to claim the title, instead of travelling to Pakistan.

Gavaskar also suggested that if India withdraws from the Asia Cup, the BCCI might organise a separate multi-nation tournament in India, inviting teams like Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan. "If India opts out of the ACC, they could host a four- or five-nation tournament in India, or even in Bangladesh or Sri Lanka, but India would likely take the lead as the host," he added.

Ex-leg-spinner Mushtaq Ahmed stressed the need for level-headedness from legendary players, quoting Hazrat Ali (RA): “Never decide in anger that forces you to regret." He emphasised Pakistan’s importance in the cricketing world and warned against politicising the sport.

Also Read: UNSC Holds Emergency Talks on India-Pakistan Tensions After Pahalgam Terror Attack