Sunil Gavaskar has strongly criticized the Pakistan cricket team for skipping their pre-match press conference ahead of their Super Four clash against India in the Asia Cup 2025. This marks the second consecutive time Pakistan has cancelled a pre-match press conference, having also done so before their match against the UAE. Gavaskar believes that this behavior should not go unpunished and has suggested potential sanctions from the Asian Cricket Council (ACC).
Gavaskar expressed his surprise and disappointment, stating, "I don't know what the thinking behind that is, but as far as I know, press conferences are mandatory". He further added, "If teams don't hold them, I'm not sure what the penalties are—if any—but in today's world, it's important for the media to be involved and kept informed".
The former India captain emphasized the importance of open communication between teams and the media. He argued that direct communication helps avoid reliance on speculation and allows teams to convey their message clearly. "It's still essential to maintain open communication with the media. Instead of relying on 'sources' or speculation, it's always better for teams to convey their point of view directly. Perhaps Pakistan feel they have nothing to share, which, frankly, isn't surprising,” Gavaskar told India Today.
Gavaskar proposed that the ACC should consider deducting points from teams that fail to fulfill their media obligations. "If there is a rule stating that press conferences are mandatory, then a point should be deducted from the table of a team that fails to follow the guidelines," he said. He acknowledged that Mohsin Naqvi is the head of the ACC, but noted that the council comprises representatives from various member nations, including India and Sri Lanka, and has a governing committee for tournaments like the Asia Cup. This committee would likely want to investigate the matter.
Pakistan's decision to avoid the press conference comes after their seven-wicket defeat to India in the group stage. The team, led by Salman Agha, is reportedly under pressure, and the captain has been reluctant to face the media. In light of this, the team has brought in psychologist Dr. Raheel Kareem to work with the squad.
Gavaskar remains confident in India's chances against Pakistan in the Super Four clash. He noted that India's close victory against Oman was beneficial as it provided a challenge early in the tournament.
