‘Match should go on’: SC refuses urgent hearing on plea to cancel India-Pakistan Asia Cup clash

New Delhi- The Supreme Court on Thursday refused to grant an urgent hearing on a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking the cancellation of the India-Pakistan Asia Cup T20 match scheduled to be played in Dubai on September 14.

When told that the match was on Sunday and the petition would become infructuous if not listed on Friday, a Bench of Justices J.K. Maheshwari and Vijay Bishnoi remarked: “Match is this Sunday? What can we do about that? Let it be. The match should go on!”

The petitioners’ counsel urged that the matter at least be listed, even if the case lacked strong merit. However, the Bench led by Justice Maheshwari declined, reiterating that the game should proceed.

The PIL, filed by four law students, argued that holding a cricket match with Pakistan in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor undermines national dignity and public sentiment.

It contended that sporting engagement with Pakistan — a country accused of sheltering terrorism — weakens the morale of the Armed Forces and deeply hurts the families of martyrs and victims of terror.

The plea further maintained that cricket cannot be prioritised over national interest, the lives of citizens, or the sacrifices of armed personnel, stating: “It can hurt the sentiments of victims’ families. National dignity and security come before entertainment. This match undermines the security, integrity, and morale of the nation.”

It added that playing the match suggests entertainment and revenue are being placed above the lives of soldiers and civilians, calling it “a mockery of the emotions of Indian citizens.” The PIL also sought to bring the BCCI under the purview of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.

With inputs from IANS