Cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has once again made headlines, this time for strongly criticizing the alleged actions of the Pakistani media during the ongoing Asia Cup 2025 Super Four stage. Gavaskar expressed his displeasure after reports emerged of Pakistan’s media outlets allegedly creating a hostile atmosphere around Team India, questioning their intent and performance in ways he described as “unprofessional and inflammatory.”
Gavaskar Calls For Accountability
Speaking on a sports panel, the former India captain didn’t mince words. “This needs to be looked at. The media has an important role in shaping narratives, but targeting players with unnecessary provocation is crossing the line. Action must be taken so that the game’s spirit is preserved,” Gavaskar said.
According to him, such behavior not only puts undue pressure on cricketers but also risks escalating tensions in a fixture already regarded as one of the sport’s fiercest rivalries.
The Flashpoint Incident
The controversy reportedly stems from a press interaction where members of the Pakistani press allegedly made barbed comments about Indian players, questioning their fitness and mental toughness after India’s grueling group stage. Sources indicate that the atmosphere in the room became so heated that Indian officials chose to cut the interaction short — a move that further intensified the debate.
Gavaskar, who has been an advocate of fair play both on and off the field, stressed that governing bodies like the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) should intervene to set clear boundaries for media conduct during international tournaments.
Protecting The Spirit of the Game
The 1983 World Cup winner added that cricketers already operate under immense pressure, especially during high-stakes India-Pakistan matches. Unchecked provocations, he argued, only fuel negativity. “Journalism is about asking tough questions, yes, but there is a thin line between questioning and instigation. That line was crossed, and it should not happen again,” Gavaskar remarked.
What’s Next?
The ACC has yet to release an official statement, but Gavaskar’s strong stance has amplified calls from fans and experts alike for stricter codes of conduct during press conferences. With the India-Pakistan rivalry being watched by millions across the globe, ensuring professionalism from all stakeholders has become more crucial than ever.
Bottom Line
Sunil Gavaskar’s comments underline a growing concern in modern cricket — the role of media in shaping narratives during high-pressure tournaments. His call for action may prompt cricketing authorities to revisit press protocols, ensuring that while tough questions remain part of the game, they never cross the line into hostility.