Cricketer-turned-expert Harbhajan Singh has stated that India and Pakistan should not indulge in a bilateral series until the equation and relations between the two Asian countries improve. The former off-spinner gave this bold statement ahead of Suryakumar Yadav-led India's clash against arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday, September 14, in Dubai.
This will mark the first occasion where both the Asian teams will meet each other for the first time since India's fearless Operation Sindoor, India's military terror strikes in Pakistan after the cowardly Pahalgam terror attack on April 22. In the captain's press conference before the start of the Continental Cup, both skippers, Suryakumar & Salman Ali Agha, have stated that neither side will give an inch when they meet on Sunday.
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"India-Pakistan matches always come into the limelight, but after Operation Sindoor, everyone said there should be no cricket and no business," Harbhajan told the media during a Society magazine event. He added, "We were playing the World Championship of Legends, but we did not play that match against Pakistan."
Following the Pahalgam terror strike, the Indian government has adopted a policy to not face Pakistan in bilateral sporting ties, while continuing to face them in ICC and Asia Cup events. Harbhajan stated that he does not support any cricket or trade with Men In Green, but said he respects the government's stance on the same.
"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," he said. "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."
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Harbhajan lavishes praise on Surya-led India for playing bold cricket
Harbhajan also praised the Indian Team under Surya's leadership for showing resilience and positive intent following Kohli's & Rohit's T20 retirements.
"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 said.
"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 added.
The expert concluded by saying he expects people to support flood-affected areas in Punjab. Harbhajan also donated money to the government for the families affected during the calamity.
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"Punjabi people have this spirit of standing up for anyone in trouble, not just their own people. Today, Punjab is facing a disaster; many people and farms have been affected. I would be nothing without Punjab. Your support is important, in any form," he said.
