Tensions rising again between India, Pakistan may soon hit the cricket field too.
Reports from Indian media say Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has told Asian Cricket Council (ACC) that Team India won’t be taking part in upcoming Asia Cup 2025.
Decision reportedly made after recent border issues and increasing discomfort between two countries.
With Pakistan’s Mohsin Naqvi — also PCB chairman and country’s Interior Minister — now leading ACC, Indian board doesn’t seem comfortable with current structure.
One BCCI official said, “Can’t send team in tournament run by ACC when a Pakistani minister is its chief. It reflects what people of India feel.” BCCI already gave a verbal notice to ACC about skipping not just Asia Cup 2025 but also Women’s Emerging Teams Asia Cup happening next month in Sri Lanka.
Without India vs Pakistan match, which usually brings biggest audience and ad money, Asia Cup’s future looks shaky.
That rivalry match is main hook of the tournament, bringing millions of fans and big sponsor deals.
Even though there’s been no bilateral series since 2012, both teams still clashed in big events like World Cups or Asia Cups — like in 2023 when Asia Cup was held in a hybrid format.
Pakistan hosted some matches, others were played in Sri Lanka. India lifted the trophy that year, beating Sri Lanka in final. Pakistan didn’t make it past Super 4s.
Now, India’s fresh decision seems like a move to isolate Pakistan on cricket diplomacy level too. Mohsin Naqvi, who recently replaced Jay Shah as ACC head after latter became ICC chairman, will now have to steer council through this new tension.
