The recent border clashes between India and Pakistan have deeply affected the cricket relationship between the two countries. Even before these events, India and Pakistan rarely played bilateral matches. Now, the worsening political tensions have put multi-team tournaments involving both nations at risk.
BCCI May Withdraw from Asia Cup Due to Political Issues
The Asia Cup 2025 is planned to be held in India. However, with a match between India and Pakistan looking unlikely, the tournament’s financial appeal is greatly reduced. While countries like Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan also benefit from the event, the biggest draw is always the India vs Pakistan game.
Because of the current political situation, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly thinking about pulling out of the Asia Cup entirely. This move aims to isolate Pakistan further in the sporting arena.
Pakistan Minister Leading Asian Cricket Council
The Asian Cricket Council (ACC), which organizes the Asia Cup, is headed by Mohsin Naqvi, a Pakistani minister and chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board. After Jay Shah from India left the ACC to become the chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC), Naqvi took over.
This leadership change has added to the tension, making the BCCI reluctant to participate in ACC-run events.
BCCI Signals Withdrawal from ACC Tournaments
According to a source quoted by the Indian Express, India cannot play in tournaments run by the ACC while it is led by a Pakistani minister. The BCCI has already informed the ACC about withdrawing from the upcoming Women’s Emerging Teams Asia Cup. They are also reconsidering their involvement in future ACC events.
The BCCI is in close contact with the Indian government about these decisions.
Financial Impact on Asia Cup and Media Rights
Most sponsors for the Asia Cup come from India, and the current anti-Pakistan mood in the country complicates the BCCI’s decision to continue with the tournament.
In 2024, Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) bought media rights for the Asia Cup at $170 million. If the tournament is canceled or altered significantly, this deal will likely have to be renegotiated.
Background: Asia Cup Hybrid Model and Recent Winner
The 2023 Asia Cup was held partly in Sri Lanka under a hybrid format. India won the tournament in Colombo, while Pakistan did not make it to the final.
The future of the Asia Cup 2025 now hangs in the balance, as politics continue to influence the cricketing ties between India and Pakistan.