Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated following a terrorist attack in Pahalgam. The Indian government has taken a firm stance, imposing several sanctions on Pakistan. The repercussions of this are being felt in the cricket world, raising questions about future matches between the two nations.
Will India Play Pakistan in the Asia Cup?
The Asia Cup is set to take place in September this year. However, the host country has yet to be announced. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Vice President, Rajiv Shukla, recently stated that India will not engage in any bilateral series with Pakistan. He emphasized that the decision is in line with the government’s stance.
The Asia Cup is organized by the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), not by the Pakistan Cricket Board or BCCI. As a member of the ACC, India may be obligated to play Pakistan.
India’s Influence on the Asia Cup
During the Champions Trophy 2025, speculation arose that Pakistan might lose hosting rights due to BCCI’s stance. Some even called for Pakistan’s exclusion from the tournament. The current chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board, Mohsin Raza Naqvi, also holds the position of ACC chairman. Naqvi’s influence within the ACC might limit India’s ability to pressure Pakistan’s exclusion from the tournament.
- The Asia Cup’s hosting rights have not been officially announced.
- India’s participation in the tournament is likely due to its ACC membership.
- Pakistan’s exclusion from the tournament seems unlikely given Naqvi’s position in the ACC.
The outcome remains uncertain, with the decision likely to be influenced by the complex dynamics between the governments and cricket boards of both countries.