Former Indian cricketer’s blunt message: ‘Virat Kohli reminder’ to Pakistan ahead of Asia Cup 2025 clash

Pakistan will need more time to recover from their heavy loss to India in the T20 World Cup 2022. Virat Kohli played a crucial role in that match. Although Pakistan appeared poised for victory, Kohli’s two sixes off Haris Rauf completely shifted the momentum. Sunil Gavaskar, the legendary Indian batsman, sent a clear message to Pakistan about that unforgettable night in Melbourne, as the two teams faced each other again-this time without Kohli.

Virat Kohli announced his retirement from T20 internationals after India won the T20 World Cup in 2024. Whether it’s the Asia Cup in 2025 or the T20 World Cup next year, Pakistan will no longer have the chance to compete against Kohli. As a result, the memories of the 2022 showdown at the iconic MCG will linger in the minds of the Pakistan pacers for a long time.

“I’m sure they will be pretty happy not to have to bowl to him. Because we have seen some fabulous innings. What about that Melbourne innings, when the match looked lost as far as India was concerned? Then he hit those unbelievable two sixes off Haris Rauf to take India close to a win and then Ashwin finished it towards the end“, he told India Today.

Gavaskar, on the other hand, believes that the Pakistani players might feel relieved now that they no longer have to face Virat Kohli.

“So yes, if I were a Pakistani, I would certainly be breathing a lot easier. That they are not playing against Kohli. Kohli, the cricketer, not just the batter,” he added.

Gavaskar was also asked about the calls to “boycott” the India-Pakistan match. He emphasized the importance of adhering to the directives issued by the Indian government.

“Well, at the end of the day, it’s the government that makes the call. Whatever decision the government takes, the players and the BCCI have to follow, and that’s exactly what has happened. It doesn’t matter what we personally think; ultimately, it’s the government’s decision, and that’s what is being implemented in this instance,” Gavaskar said.

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