Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray has strongly criticized the decision for India to face Pakistan in the Asia Cup match scheduled for September 14, 2025, calling it an “insult to national sentiments.” Thackeray said that while Indian soldiers are sacrificing their lives on the borders, playing cricket with Pakistan - a nation accused of backing terrorism - wounds the sentiment of the people. 

He announced that Shiv Sena (UBT) will conduct protests across Maharashtra under the banner of “Sindoor Raksha” - women will collect sindoor from households and send it to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a symbolic message. Thackeray also questioned the government’s priorities, accusing it of placing trade or politics above patriotism. 

Meanwhile, opposition leaders including Arvind Kejriwal have backed Thackeray’s stance, urging the Centre to reconsider allowing the match, especially in light of the recent Pahalgam terror attack that left many dead and injured. The debate continues as political parties, victims’ families, and citizens struggle with where the line lies between sport and national feeling.