Amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan following recent border conflicts, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly planning to withdraw from the Asia Cup 2025. The move is seen as a strong political stance aimed at isolating Pakistan in the cricketing world.
The tournament is scheduled to be held in India later this year, but BCCI officials have expressed concerns about participating in any event overseen by the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), currently chaired by Pakistan’s Mohsin Naqvi, who also serves as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief.
According to sources quoted by the Indian Express, the BCCI has already communicated its intent to pull out of the upcoming Women’s Emerging Teams Asia Cup and is reevaluating future participation in ACC tournaments. “The Indian team can’t play in a tournament run by a Pakistani minister. That’s the national sentiment,” said a BCCI source.
Political Tensions Impact Cricketing Relations
India and Pakistan have not played bilateral cricket since 2012 due to ongoing political disagreements. While they have continued to face each other in ICC events and the Asia Cup, the current hostile climate may end even those occasional encounters.
The Asia Cup, which heavily depends on the viewership of high-voltage India vs Pakistan matches, now faces a serious financial blow. The absence of the marquee fixture could reduce the tournament’s appeal, especially for sponsors and broadcasters.
Asia Cup Future in Doubt
Sony Pictures Networks India had acquired Asia Cup broadcasting rights in 2024 for a reported USD 170 million. If India withdraws, this deal may be revisited, and the ACC’s financial planning could be severely disrupted.
In 2023, the Asia Cup was conducted using a hybrid model, with matches hosted across Sri Lanka and Pakistan due to India’s refusal to play in Pakistan. India eventually won the tournament, while Pakistan failed to reach the final.
This time, however, a hybrid model may not be enough. If BCCI officially pulls out, the entire tournament’s fate could hang in the balance — potentially putting the ACC’s long-term relevance at risk.
Stay tuned for all the latest Cricket news, match highlights, player analysis, and viral moments!