Overview:
Although some of the players have played Pakistan in the past, the nature of the talks has made the situation tough for them as well.
Fans and former India players have turned against the BCCI and the current cricketers for agreeing to play against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025. The boycott calls have reached the players. A report has revealed that captain Suryakumar Yadav, vice-captain Shubman Gill and other players have been shocked after reading what is being said ahead of the mega match on Sunday. With most of the players young and active on social media, the boycott calls have made them nervous.
According to a report in the Times of India, the players had a word with head coach Gautam Gambhir and other members of the support staff to seek suggestions on how to handle the situation. Although some of the players have played Pakistan in the past, the nature of the talks has made the situation tough for them as well.
To avoid any controversy, assistant coach Ryan Ten Doeschate was sent for the press conference on Saturday. Gambhir or Suryakumar should have spoken to the media, considering the stature of the match against Pakistan, but they stayed away.
“Players know about the feeling of the fans, and they respect it. However, we will have to put it behind us and play for the country again. They will be focused on the game. The Asia Cup was stuck for a long time, and we were waiting. We won’t be coming at one stage, but you know about the government’s stance,” Ten Doeschate said.
“Gautam Gambhir has told the players to be professional without worrying about anything that is not in our control,” he added.
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