Asia Cup 2025: BCCI labeled 'Greedy' for India vs Pakistan match, given stern warning by Shiv Sena leader

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Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray sharply criticized the BCCI over the scheduled India-Pakistan matches in the Asia Cup 2025, scheduled to take place on September 14.

On Independence Day, he said after numerous efforts by the Union government to expose Islamabad's role behind the Pahalgam attack, the "greed for money of the cricketing body stands above the sacrifice of the armed forces."

He stated, "It will be a real shame if the BCCI thinks it's above what Prime Minister Narendra Modi said from Red Fort during the Independence Day speech."

Thackeray emphasized, "After so many efforts of the Union Government and our country to tell the world that Pakistan is behind the Pahalgham attack, the greed for money of the BCCI stands above the sacrifice of the Armed Forces, the Nation and even the PM saying blood and water cannot flow together." He called it a joke that with all the power BCCI wields in the ICC, it claims to be bound by Asia Cup rules.

The Asia Cup 2025 will be held in UAE starting September 9, with India and Pakistan slated to meet on September 14 in Dubai, and potentially again on September 21. The event will use the T20I format, ahead of the T20 World Cup next year.

On the Independence Day, PM Modi delivered a stern warning from the Red Fort, stating that terrorists and those providing safe haven to them will be treated alike, with the armed forces ready to deliver a "crushing" response to any misadventure. Modi referred to Operation Sindoor, saying the military had severely punished the enemies and that India will no longer tolerate Islamabad's "nuclear blackmail," pledging appropriate responses.

India's relationship with Pakistan deteriorated after the post-Operation Sindoor altercations in the border. Recently, the Indian former players opted out of playing Pakistan twice in the World Championship of Legends tournament.