New Delhi – The Indian Supreme Court has dismissed a petition seeking the cancellation of the Pakistan-India match in the ongoing Asia Cup.

The court rejected the plea, questioning the urgency of the matter. “What is the emergency in this?” the court asked during the hearing.

“It’s just a match, let it remain a match,” remarked one of the judges. Referring to the upcoming clash, the judge stated, “The match is scheduled for Sunday — it should go ahead. Nothing can be done at this time.”

Furthermore, the bench comprising Justice J.K. Maheshwari and Justice Vijay Bishnoi declined to even hear the case formally.

Read more: Petition Filed in Indian Supreme Court to Ban Pakistan-India Asia Cup 2025 Match

Pakistan and India are scheduled to face off on Sunday, September 14, in Dubai as part of the T20 Asia Cup. If both teams advance to the final, fans could witness up to three high-stakes encounters between the arch-rivals during the tournament.

While players from both sides have shared cordial relations over the years despite geopolitical realities, both captains were asked if they would instruct their players to dial down their aggression, considering the larger context.

Speaking at a press conference, Salman Ali Agha said no special instructions had been issued for the India-Pakistan clash.

Agha found it unnecessary to try and curb a player’s natural aggression as long as it did not spill over the game’s confines.

“You don’t need to say anything to any player because every individual is different,” said Agha.

“Our focus is on our game and performance. If any team or player shows aggression, we are ready. Fast bowlers are expected to channel intensity, which is part of the match,” he said.

He added that the team’s aim is simple: deliver 100% in every game. Victory in the recent tri-series has boosted Pakistan’s confidence, and the squad is fully geared up for the Asia Cup.

Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav struck a similar note, stating that passion and aggression are part of a cricketer’s role on the field and should be embraced.

“Aggression (is) always there when we take the field,” a relaxed-looking Suryakumar said at the captains’ pre-tournament media interaction on Tuesday.

“Without (some degree of) aggression, I don’t think you can play the sport. I’m really excited to take the field.”

India have not played T20 Internationals since the home series against England in February but Suryakumar would not call his team undercooked.

“Well, if your preparations are great, then you are certainly confident when you take the field,” he said.

“Yes, we are playing after quite a while, but we came here three-four days back and we had a good time as a team together. Really looking forward to this tournament.”

The stage is now set: Pakistan, India, and other top Asian sides are ready to battle it out for regional supremacy.