• Source:JND
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IND vs PAK Asia Cup 2025: Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria believes the traditionally high-voltage India-Pakistan cricket vendetta has lost some of its lustre in the Asia Cup due to the underperforming standards of Pakistan cricket.

For the first time in many years, the marquee clash between India and Pakistan isn't generating the expected talk among fans and the cricketing fraternity.

It all started after a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 tourists. In the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack. Indian veterans boycotted their World Championship of Legends match against Pakistan.

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Since the Asia Cup schedule was revealed, a frequent debate has arisen over whether India and Pakistan should engage in a cricketing tournament, given the strained political relations between the two nations.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), however, has maintained that it is bound by the central government's policy, which allows participation in multinational tournaments but restricts bilateral series with Pakistan.

"There's no doubt Indian sentiments are hurt. India didn't play the World Championship of Legends match, and there's still no clarity on the matter. Also, the quality of Pakistan cricket has declined, which is why there isn't much hype around the India vs Pakistan clash this time," Kaneria told IANS.

The veteran bowler also expressed doubts about Pakistan's chances against India in the Asia Cup match, saying, "There is no competition right now."

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He suggested that Pakistan's team is full of youngsters, with critical players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan missing. In distinction, India have a powerful and deep batting lineup, led by Suryakumar Yadav.

"Pakistan is losing against smaller teams, and there are regular changes in the squad. This time, neither Babar Azam nor Rizwan is in the team... The condition of the team is such that there is no established player right now. Most of them are youngsters," added Kaneria.

(With Agency Inputs)