Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag is facing backlash on the internet after he appeared in the Asia Cup 2025 promo promoting the India vs Pakistan match by Sony Sports.
A few days ahead of the Asia Cup 2025, Sony Sports released a promo for the continental event with a clip highlighting the India vs Pakistan clash. Despite backlash from fans, the promo featured Virender Sehwag, who was seen in that particular clip. This led to outrage online, with many calling out Sehwag for his stance on patriotism.
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Sehwag Faces Backlash Over U-Turn on Pakistan Stance Amid Asia Cup Promo
Notably, during the Pahalgam attack, Virender Sehwag was one of the few cricketers to voice opposition to playing cricket against Pakistan in the future. However, his stand appeared to change within a few months, as fans accused him of choosing money over patriotism. Alongside Sehwag, the BCCI also came under fire for going ahead with the match against Pakistan in the tournament.
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India Maintains Bilateral Ban, Clears Asia Cup Participation Under Multilateral Policy
Last week, the Indian Sports Ministry rolled out a fresh policy on India’s international sports participation, especially concerning Pakistan. As per the update, bilateral matches are still off the table, but multilateral tournaments won’t be affected. This means the Indian side will take part in the Asia Cup as scheduled.
"India's approach to sports events involving Pakistan reflects its overall policy in dealing with that country," stated the ministry policy.
"As bilateral sports events in each other's countries are concerned, Indian teams will not be participating in competitions in Pakistan. Nor will we permit Pakistani teams to play in India."
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"We will not stop the Indian cricket team from playing in the Asia Cup, as it is multilateral. But Pakistan will not be allowed on Indian soil for bilateral competitions. However, we will not stop them from multilateral events as we will abide by the Olympic Charter," a ministry source added.
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India will take on Pakistan on September 14, with the potential of two more matches if both teams qualify for the next rounds, including the knockouts of the Asia Cup 2025.
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