“It’s no longer a rivalry, Sourav Ganguly’s blunt take on India vs Pakistan

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has ignited fresh controversy following his strong remarks about the state of the India–Pakistan cricket rivalry after their latest encounter.

Speaking to the media after the high-voltage clash, Ganguly stated that the fixture no longer carries the competitive intensity it once did. “It’s no longer our rivalry. It’s just a simple game,” he said, suggesting that the gap between the two teams has grown significantly over the years.

Ganguly drew comparisons with Pakistan’s golden generation, referencing legends such as Javed Miandad, Wasim Akram, Inzamam-ul-Haq, and Saeed Anwar. According to him, the current Pakistan side does not match the stature, skill level, or aura of those iconic teams that once made the rivalry fiercely competitive.

“We used to think Pakistan was a big team. That’s not the same Pakistan anymore,” Ganguly reportedly said, emphasizing that India’s modern-day challenges lie elsewhere.

The former BCCI president added that India’s real high-profile contests now come against teams like Australia, England, and South Africa — sides he believes are more aligned with India’s current standard of cricket. “Big matches today are India vs Australia, India vs England, India vs South Africa,” he noted.

The remarks have triggered strong reactions on both sides of the border. While many Indian fans view Ganguly’s comments as a reflection of India’s dominance in recent years — particularly in ICC tournaments — Pakistani supporters and former cricketers see it as an attempt to undermine the historical significance of the rivalry.

Cricket analysts, however, point out that rivalries are shaped not only by current form but also by history, politics, fan engagement, and unforgettable moments. Despite fluctuating performances over decades, India vs Pakistan remains one of the most-watched fixtures in world cricket.

Whether Ganguly’s comments reflect a changing cricketing reality or simply add fuel to an already emotional contest, one thing is certain: as long as the two nations meet on the field, the spotlight will remain brighter than ever.