“We did not play that match against Pakistan” - Harbhajan Singh reacts ahead of India vs Pakistan game

Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh has opened up ahead of the much-awaited India vs Pakistan clash, stating that Men In Blue shouldn’t play against Pakistan until relations between both countries improve. 

It’s worth noting that the former Indian spinner’s comments came ahead of India’s much-awaited clash against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 campaign, scheduled to take place on Sunday, September 14 in Dubai.

Notably, this will be the first time India would be facing Pakistan since Operation Sindoor, India’s response to terror groups in Pakistan after the Pahalgam attack in April 2025. Interestingly, India Legends pulled out of their league stage and semi-final games against Pakistan Legends in the recently concluded World Championship of Legends in July 2025. 

"India-Pakistan matches always come into the limelight, but after Operation Sindoor, everyone said there should be no cricket and no business. We were playing the World Championship of Legends, but we did not play that match against Pakistan,” Harbhajan told the media during a Society magazine event.

"Everyone has their own way of thinking and understanding, but I feel that until relations between the two countries improve, cricket and business should not take place either. But that is my thought. If the government says the match can happen, it should happen, but the relations between the two countries should be better,” he added.

Also, the former spinner heaped praise on the Suryakumar Yadav-led Indian T20I side asserting that only the Indian team itself can defeat the Indian team. He also felt that Indian cricket is at a different level even in the absence of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.

"If there is any team that can beat the Indian team, it is the Indian team itself - it is such a strong side. Our cricket is at a different level. Even if Virat and Rohit are gone, the team is completely ready," he stated.

"Playing in Dubai is almost like playing at home. The role of the spinners will be huge, and I hope the team brings the cup back," he concluded.

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