Every time India beats Pakistan, a moment of national celebration: Harbhajan Singh

Harbhajan Singh, the former spinner for India, has praised India’s resounding victory against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 match in Dubai, referring to it as a “national celebration.” On Sunday, September 14, India put on a strong all-around display to defeat their bitter opponents and extend their winning streak in the competition.

The match had carried extra weight even before a ball was bowled. With political tensions high following the Pahalgam attacks and India’s subsequent retaliation through Operation Sindoor, there had been widespread debate on whether the contest should even take place. But once the action began, India ensured that Cricket, not politics, took centre stage.

“It was a much-needed victory,” India Today was exclusively informed by Harbhajan Singh. There was much discussion prior to the game, with some questioning whether this match should even take place. However, India ultimately wins by a significant margin. Full credit to the team — they played terrific cricket. They showed exactly what they’re capable of and why they are one of the best in the world. This is how India plays cricket.”

A DIRECTIVE PERFORMANCE

Throughout the game, India’s youthful team showed poise and style. With their game-winning performances, Abhishek Sharma and Hardik Pandya were outstanding, and Pakistan was left reeling by the spin onslaught. Pakistan’s hitters appeared bewildered against India’s spinners, who adhered to their strategies and bowled with discipline, Harbhajan noted.

“Yes, absolutely. “The Indian team demonstrated the proper way to play Twenty20 cricket,” Harbhajan stated. Despite having a youthful team, we had several players who won games. On any given day, these youngsters can win a game on their own. On the other hand, when Pakistan was batting, they looked clueless against our spinners. Team India held their nerves, stuck to the plan, and bowled brilliantly to bowl them out cheaply.”

Wins over Pakistan are never routine for Harbhajan. They have emotional significance that goes beyond athletics and turns into proud occasions for millions of supporters nationwide.

“There is no denying that every time India defeats Pakistan, there is a moment of national celebration,” he stated. “It’s always special to beat Pakistan. I sincerely hope everyone celebrates this victory since it’s an emotional occasion. I can only say this to those who did not see the game: as athletes, our only option is to proudly represent our nation and give it our all to win.

India’s resounding victory has confirmed their supremacy over Pakistan on the major stage and given them more confidence going into the Asia Cup. For Harbhajan, and indeed for the nation, the result was another reminder of why this rivalry continues to mean so much.