No cricket between India and Pakistan until bilateral relations improve: Harbhajan

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh said that India and Pakistan should not play bilateral cricket series until relations between the two countries improve. The legendary spinner made these remarks ahead of the Asia Cup group clash between the archrivals in Dubai.

India and Pakistan will face each other for the first time since Operation Sindoor, India’s retaliatory strikes on terror groups in Pakistan after the Pahalgam attack in April. Captains Suryakumar Yadav and Salman Ali Agha have both said that neither side will ease up when they clash in Dubai on Sunday.

"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 attack, the Indian government adopted a policy to suspend bilateral sporting ties with Pakistan while continuing to face them in multilateral events. Harbhajan, speaking personally, said he does not support cricket or trade with Pakistan, though he respects the government's stance on the matter.

"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."

Turning to the Indian cricket team, Harbhajan lauded their resilience following the retirements of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from T20 cricket.

"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.

Harbhajan also urged people to support flood-affected areas in Punjab.

"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.