The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has put an end to speculation over India’s participation against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025, confirming that the Men in Blue will take the field against their arch-rivals on September 14 in Dubai.
Speaking to Indian media, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia clarified that the central government has not imposed any restrictions on India competing against countries with which diplomatic ties remain strained, such as Pakistan, in multinational events.
“Policy Is Clear, No Room for Boycott”
“So far as the BCCI’s view is concerned, we have to follow whatever the central government formalises,” Saikia said.
“The policy clearly states that there are no restrictions on India playing against countries not on friendly terms. Therefore, India has to play all matches in any multinational tournament.”
His remarks come after growing calls from certain quarters for India to boycott Pakistan following the Pahalgam attack. Saikia, however, stressed that India must abide by the government’s sports policy, which allows competition in global and continental tournaments but bars bilateral engagements.
Sanctions a Real Risk
Saikia also underlined the consequences of pulling out from fixtures in multinational events. “If India boycotts any multinational tournament, whether cricket or football or athletics, there may be sanctions against the Indian federation,” he noted.
By confirming participation, the BCCI has effectively delivered its final verdict on the controversy — a decision seen as a bittersweet pill for many Indian fans.
No Bilateral, Only Multinational
While India and Pakistan will continue to remain estranged in terms of bilateral cricket, both sides are bound to meet in ICC and ACC tournaments. “For bilateral ties, we will not play against hostile nations,” Saikia reiterated.
Asia Cup 2025: India’s Group Stage Path
The 15th edition of the Asia Cup will be played in the T20I format with eight teams in contention. India are placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, Oman and hosts UAE.
- September 10: India vs UAE (Dubai)
- September 14: India vs Pakistan (Dubai)
- September 19: India vs Oman (Abu Dhabi)
The top two sides from each group will qualify for the Super Four stage, with the final scheduled for September 28.
