Sunil Gavaskar has stirred up memories of Virat Kohli's iconic performance against Pakistan in the 2022 T20 World Cup, particularly the two sixes Kohli hit off Haris Rauf in Melbourne. Gavaskar's comments come ahead of the Asia Cup 2025 match between India and Pakistan in Dubai on September 14. With Kohli's absence from the Indian squad, Gavaskar suggests that Pakistani bowlers might be "breathing a lot easier".

In a conversation with India Today, Gavaskar reflected on Kohli's remarkable innings at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) during the 2022 T20 World Cup. India, chasing 160, found themselves in a precarious situation at 31/4. Kohli, along with Hardik Pandya, then orchestrated a comeback, marked by a crucial fifth-wicket partnership. The defining moment arrived when Kohli smashed two sixes off Haris Rauf in the final over, turning the tide in India's favor. Kohli remained unbeaten with 82 runs off 53 balls, securing a memorable victory for India.

Gavaskar acknowledged the significance of Kohli's absence for the upcoming Asia Cup clash. He stated that he was sure the Pakistan team would be happy not to have to bowl to Kohli. Gavaskar recalled the Melbourne innings, emphasizing the two sixes off Haris Rauf, and how Kohli and Ashwin finished the game.

Furthermore, Gavaskar has weighed in on the broader context surrounding the India-Pakistan match, addressing the calls for boycotts. He stated that the decision to play against Pakistan ultimately rests with the Indian government, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the players are obligated to follow the government's directives. Gavaskar emphasized that individual opinions are secondary to the government's decision-making process.

"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," Gavaskar told India Today. He added, "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".

Despite the intense rivalry and the historical significance of India-Pakistan matches, Gavaskar believes that the focus should remain on cricket. He noted that matches between India and Pakistan are always interesting because the teams are well-matched. Gavaskar gave India a 60-40 edge over Pakistan but noted the unpredictable nature of the T20 format. He also opined that the Pakistan team would be 'breathing a lot easier' not having to face Virat Kohli.

Gavaskar also highlighted the importance of how the batters play against spin, stating that he doesn't expect the pitch to offer extreme turn.