New Delhi, July 28 (PTI): In light of the ongoing tensions with Pakistan, Arvind Sawant of the Shiv Sena (UBT) expressed in the Lok Sabha on Monday that India should avoid engaging in cricket matches with Pakistan. This statement is particularly significant as the Asia Cup 2025 is set to take place in the UAE from September 9 to 28, with India and Pakistan grouped together once more. During a special debate on the Pahalgam terror strikes and Operation Sindoor, Sawant questioned India's decision to halt its war efforts with Pakistan without stipulating any terms, especially when Pakistan was reportedly pleading for a ceasefire. He posited that if India was strategically advantaged, it should have seized the opportunity to reclaim Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Sawant argued this was a prime moment to deliver a decisive message to Pakistan, similar to the actions taken by Indira Gandhi during the 1971 conflict. He further appealed that it would be inappropriate for India to engage in cricketing events with a nation that has repeatedly harmed its interests. This year's Asia Cup will be held in the T20 format, serving as preparation for the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. Sawant expressed his disappointment over the lack of international support for India during Operation Sindoor, pointing out the backing Pakistan received from countries like China and Turkiye. He also criticized the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for sanctioning a loan to Pakistan, despite India's opposition.
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