**Stop Calling India-Pakistan Matches a ‘Rivalry’: Suryakumar Yadav**
*By Gaurav Tripathi | Sep 22, 2025, 05:16 AM*
Indian cricket captain Suryakumar Yadav has downplayed the intense hype surrounding India-Pakistan cricket matches, urging that these encounters should no longer be labeled as a “rivalry.” His remarks came in the wake of India’s recent victory over Pakistan in the Asia Cup Super 4 match held in Dubai.
### India Dominates Yet Again
The two teams have faced off 15 times in T20 internationals, with India securing 12 wins. In the latest clash, India chased down Pakistan’s total with six wickets to spare. Pakistan posted a competitive 171/5 in their 20 overs, thanks to opener Sahibzada Farhan’s innings of 58 off 45 balls. However, India’s openers, Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill, laid a strong foundation by adding 105 runs, helping their team complete the chase comfortably in the 19th over.
It’s worth noting that India had also defeated Pakistan convincingly in the group stage of the tournament.
### “Rivalry and Standard Are All the Same”
When a senior Pakistani journalist questioned whether the gap between the two sides has widened, Suryakumar responded with a smile, “Sir, my request is that we should now stop calling India vs Pakistan matches a rivalry.”
Upon clarification that the query was about the “standards” rather than the rivalry itself, he quipped, “Sir, rivalry and standard are all the same. Now what is a rivalry? If two teams have played 15 matches and it’s 8-7, that’s a rivalry.”
### Focus on Quality Cricket and Entertainment
Suryakumar emphasized the importance of quality cricket over fan-driven rivalry narratives. “If the stadium is full, it’s our responsibility to entertain,” he said. “At that time, I don’t know, I didn’t play (laughs), so I can’t say, but if we talk about rivalry, I don’t know what rivalry you are talking about.”
He highlighted the players’ duty to provide entertaining cricket for eager fans rather than getting caught up in the rivalry talk.
### Managing Pressure Ahead of Big Matches
Ahead of another high-stakes Asia Cup clash against Pakistan, Suryakumar shared insights on handling external pressure. “Close your room, switch off your phone and sleep. I think that’s the best thing,” he advised. “It’s easy to say, but sometimes it is difficult because you meet a lot of friends.”
He stressed the need for the team to stay focused during the tournament and absorb only information that benefits their performance on the field.
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Suryakumar Yadav’s perspective offers a refreshing take on the India-Pakistan cricket narrative, urging players and fans alike to prioritize the spirit of the game and quality cricket over historic rivalries.
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