In the wake of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has dismissed reports suggesting that India will withdraw from the upcoming Asia Cup 2025.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia clarified that no decision has been made regarding India’s participation in the tournament, which is scheduled for September.
“Such news is devoid of any truth,” Saikia told Indian media, emphasizing that the BCCI’s current focus is on the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) and the forthcoming series against England. He added that matters related to participation in Asian Cricket Council (ACC) events have not been discussed at any level within the board.
The BCCI’s statements come amid reports claiming that India has decided not to participate in or host the Asia Cup due to the recent war against Pakistan. Some sources suggested that the BCCI had communicated this decision to the ACC, citing the current political climate and the ACC’s leadership under Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi as influencing factors.
The 2025 Asia Cup is likely to be the first event where Pakistan and India’s cricket teams will square off since the war. India’s coach Gautham Gambhir had already urged the BCCI to cut all cricketing ties with Pakistan, which will likely add further intensity to the already charged match.
The 2025 Asia Cup is a significant event in the cricketing calendar, particularly this year, as it will serve as a tune-up for the 2026 T20 World Cup. Eight teams—including India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Hong Kong, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates—will take part in the competition, which will be held following a hybrid model agreed upon by the BCCI and PCB.
India will take the field, if they do, as the defending champion.
The BCCI’s denial of withdrawal reports aims to quell speculation and maintain focus on current cricketing commitments. However, the final decision regarding India’s participation in the Asia Cup 2025 remains pending, with official announcements expected in due course.