The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has reportedly pencilled in September 12 to 28, 2025 as the tentative window for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) identified as the preferred host. However, India’s participation remains under a cloud of uncertainty amid ongoing political tensions with Pakistan.
Tentative Dates and Venue Finalized by ACC
According to a report by veteran sports journalist Saleem Khaliq, the ACC has internally communicated the provisional dates and is preparing logistics assuming the tournament will be staged in the UAE. While the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not issued any formal objections, there has also been no explicit confirmation of participation from the Indian side.
This ambiguity has created a sense of unease among cricket administrators and fans alike. The Asia Cup, played in the T20 format this year, is considered a crucial preparatory event ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
Political Tensions Cast a Shadow
India and Pakistan have long had a complicated cricketing relationship, largely shaped by broader diplomatic tensions. In 2023, the Asia Cup followed a “hybrid model,” with India’s matches shifted to Sri Lanka while Pakistan served as the nominal host. A similar approach had been tentatively agreed upon for future events involving both nations, relying on neutral venues to bypass political hurdles.
Despite the arrangement, speculation about India’s possible withdrawal from the 2025 edition resurfaced earlier this year following Mohsin Naqvi’s appointment as ACC President. However, those rumors were quickly dismissed by BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, who stated that no such decision had been made or discussed at the board level.
A Promotional Snub Raises Eyebrows
Adding to the uncertainty, a recent promotional video by Sony Sports, the official broadcaster for ACC events, featured only the captains of India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. The absence of Pakistan’s captain from the promotional content has sparked online debate and further speculation about team participation.
Officials involved in tournament planning have called the omission “symbolic but not conclusive,” reiterating that no official communication from either BCCI or PCB has signaled a withdrawal from the event.
Commercial Stakes and Fan Expectations
Beyond the geopolitical considerations, the Asia Cup remains a highly commercial tournament. The broadcast rights deal with Sony Sports, worth an estimated $170 million, was signed for the 2024–2031 cycle. Much of that value hinges on high-profile encounters — particularly India vs Pakistan matches, which consistently deliver massive viewership.
Insiders say the ACC remains hopeful of resolving the impasse. “As long as there is no formal withdrawal or objection, the working assumption is that all teams — including India and Pakistan — are participating,” a source close to the matter said.
Final Word from ACC Expected Soon
For now, the ACC continues to operate under the assumption that India will participate, with the UAE hosting all matches to ensure neutrality. With time running short, especially for venue logistics, ticketing, and broadcasting preparations, the pressure is mounting on all stakeholders to finalize arrangements.
Cricket fans across Asia and beyond await a formal schedule and venue announcement, along with clarity on team participation, particularly from India. The coming weeks are expected to be decisive in determining the final shape of the tournament.
India’s Participation Still Unclear, Says Report
“The ACC has internally communicated the tentative dates of September 12 to 28 for the Asia Cup 2025, with UAE likely to host the tournament,” reported veteran sports journalist Saleem Khaliq.
While India has not objected formally, it has also not confirmed its participation, creating ongoing uncertainty.
A recent promotional video released by Sony Sports, which excluded Pakistan’s captain, further fueled speculation about the team’s involvement.
However, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia clarified earlier this year:
“BCCI has not even discussed or taken any such steps regarding boycotting the Asia Cup.”
As of now, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) is proceeding with preparations assuming both India and Pakistan will participate. The UAE is being considered as a neutral venue to avoid political complications. An official statement on the final schedule and confirmation of team participation is expected soon.
