Udaipur, May 5, 2025: Tensions between India and Pakistan are at an all-time high after the gun attack in Pahalgam. There have also been firing incidents along the border, and both countries have placed restrictions on each other's airspace and seaports.

Amid this tense situation, former Pakistan cricketer Javed Miandad has criticised Indian legend Sunil Gavaskar’s recent comments. Miandad said he could not believe what Gavaskar said about Pakistan's role in the Asia Cup and the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). Former Pakistani players Iqbal Qasim and Basit Ali also criticised Gavaskar’s remarks, saying they reflect a biased mindset.

Gavaskar's Comments Spark Controversy

Gavaskar recently shared his thoughts with Sports Today, expressing doubts about Pakistan's participation in the Asia Cup scheduled for September due to the current state of India-Pakistan relations. He stated, "The BCCI follows the Indian government’s directions. Nothing should be different in the Asia Cup. This time, India and Sri Lanka are joint hosts. We’ll have to see if the situation changes, but if it doesn’t, I don’t see Pakistan in the Asia Cup."

He also mentioned that worsening relations between India and Pakistan could lead to the dissolution of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). If that happens, Gavaskar suggested, India may withdraw from the ACC, and a four- or five-nation tournament could be held, including teams from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan, with India hosting more of the events.

Miandad’s Response: Disbelief and Distrust

These comments have not gone down well in Pakistan. Javed Miandad, a former Pakistani cricketer who knows Gavaskar well, expressed his disbelief. Referring to Gavaskar as "Sunny Bhai," Miandad responded, "I cannot believe Sunny Bhai has said these things. I know him better than anyone in Pakistan. He respects Pakistan enough. He cannot say these things."

Iqbal Qasim's Statement

Iqbal Qasim, another former Pakistani cricketer, was also taken aback by Gavaskar’s remarks. He stated, "Gavaskar is a responsible personality, loved by people on both sides of the border. Politics should not be mixed with sports. All Asian teams play in the Asia Cup. How can he talk about the Asia Cup without Pakistan?"

Basit Ali Calls Gavaskar’s Words ‘Stupid’

Basit Ali, known for his bold comments, reacted differently. He dismissed Gavaskar’s statement as "stupid" and demanded evidence before making such accusations. "How can you accuse Pakistan before the investigation is complete? Give evidence first" he said. Basit also emphasised that cricket legends should focus on cricket, not politics.