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Ryan ten Doeschate says the Indian team is following government and BCCI instructions amid Asia Cup match controversy with Pakistan.
This will be the first meeting between the two teams since the Operation Sindoor. (PTI Photo)
Amid criticism of the Indian cricket team and the BCCI for going ahead with their Asa Cup match against Pakistan, fielding coach Ryan ten Doeschate has revealed that they are following the government’s instructions.
In the backdrop of Pahalgam terror attack and India’s subsequent military operation that resulted in a conflict with Pakistan, there’s been a debate over whether cricket match should be played between the two neighbours.
India are scheduled to face Pakistan in their second match of the ongoing 2025 Asia Cup in Dubai on Sunday.
Ten Doeschate says the players understand the sentiments of the public.
“It is a very sensitive issue. Players feel the emotion and sentiments of the public. This is what we have discussed in the team meetings. Players are here to play cricket. We are following government instructions,” the former Netherlands cricketer told reporters Saturday.
Ten Doeschate says head coach Gautam Gambhir has asked players to keep their focus on cricket and avoid things they cannot control.
“Our thing is you separate sports and politics. I understand the sentiment, but we are following directive of BCCI and government. Knowing this will happen was the most frustrating part. Gauti’s (head coach Gautam Gambhir) message is to not focus on things not in your control. Message is to focus on cricket,” he said.
Indian Government’s Stance
Earlier, the Indian government said while there will be no bilateral engagement with Pakistan in sports events. However, the two teams can play each other in multinational tournaments in India or abroad.
“With regard to international and multilateral events, in India or abroad, we are guided by the practices of international sports bodies and the interest of our own sportspersons,” the statement read.
“It is also relevant to take into account India’s emergence as a credible venue to host international sports events. Accordingly, Indian teams and individual players will take part in international events that also have teams or players from Pakistan. Similarly, Pakistani players and teams will be able to participate in such multilateral events hosted by India,” it added.
Feroz Khan has been covering sports for over 12 years now and is currently working with Network18 as Principal Correspondent. He embarked on his journey in 2011 and has since acquired vast experience in digital…Read More
Feroz Khan has been covering sports for over 12 years now and is currently working with Network18 as Principal Correspondent. He embarked on his journey in 2011 and has since acquired vast experience in digital… Read More
September 13, 2025, 19:49 IST
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