Mumbai: Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray sharply criticized the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) following the announcement of the Indian squad for the Asia Cup 2025, accusing the organization of exploiting matches against Pakistan for financial gain. Thackeray’s remarks came shortly after the BCCI revealed the team, led by captain Suryakumar Yadav and vice-captain Shubman Gill, during a press conference attended by chief selector Ajit Agarkar and BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia.
In a post on X, Thackeray highlighted what he perceives as hypocrisy, stating that while the BJP-led government condemns Pakistan for alleged terrorist activities, the BCCI continues to schedule high-profile cricket matches against them. “The BJP can keep telling you to ‘go to Pakistan’ and send delegations to highlight Pakistan-based terrorist attacks on India,” Thackeray wrote, “but the BCCI won’t miss the chance to play Pakistan and profit.” He tagged his post with #FakeNationalism, underscoring his view that the BCCI’s motives are driven by revenue rather than national interest.
Thackeray’s criticism follows his earlier comments on August 12, where he questioned the BCCI and the central government’s decision to maintain cricketing ties with Pakistan amid rising tensions. He referenced reported threats from Pakistan’s Army Chief Asim Munir, who allegedly claimed the country could retaliate against India in the event of an existential threat. The Men’s Asia Cup 2025, set to take place in the United Arab Emirates from September 9 to 28, includes a highly anticipated India-Pakistan match on September 14 in Dubai.
The BCCI’s squad announcement has sparked debate, with Thackeray’s remarks amplifying concerns about the board’s priorities. The tournament, formatted as a T20I event to prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup, will see India compete in Group A alongside Pakistan, UAE, and Oman, with the final scheduled for September 28 in Dubai.