The uncertainty surrounding the Asia Cup 2025 may finally see some resolution, as reports suggest that the Indian and Pakistani cricket boards are likely to meet during the upcoming ICC Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Singapore. The meeting, scheduled from July 17 to 20, could become the platform where key decisions regarding the venue and schedule of the Asia Cup are finalized.
Dhaka Meeting Called Off, Singapore Takes the Lead
Originally, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) was expected to meet in Dhaka to iron out tournament details. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) declined to attend the meeting in Bangladesh, prompting a shift in venue. Now, the discussions may take place on the sidelines of the ICC AGM in Singapore, where top officials from BCCI and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) will already be present.
Background: India-Pakistan Sports Diplomacy Shift
The development comes just a day after a major breakthrough, where the Indian government officially cleared the way for the national team to face Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025. Indian Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya confirmed that India has no objection to competing against Pakistan in international tournaments, including cricket.
This marks a significant policy shift compared to previous years. In the last edition of the Champions Trophy, India refused to travel to Pakistan and played all matches in Dubai instead. In response, Pakistan had declined to participate in India-hosted ICC events. With this approval now in place, hopes have been reignited for a high-voltage India vs Pakistan clash in the Asia Cup.
Venue Still Up in the Air: Dubai the Favorite?
Despite India’s green light to play Pakistan, the venue of the Asia Cup 2025 remains undecided. The tournament is scheduled to run from September 5 to 21 in T20 format, and India is officially listed as the host. However, reports suggest that Dubai, Sharjah, or Abu Dhabi are being considered as alternative venues due to logistical and political sensitivities.
Crucially, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has maintained its stance that Pakistan will not participate in any ICC event held in India, opting instead for neutral venues. This complicates matters further, as the ACC must find a location agreeable to both boards and suitable for hosting a major continental tournament.
Commercial Pressure Mounts
Another factor adding urgency to the situation is the commercial pressure surrounding the tournament. Sony Sports, the broadcaster holding media rights for the Asia Cup, has reportedly invested over $170 million in securing coverage. Any delay or disruption to the tournament could have serious financial implications for all stakeholders involved.
Broadcasters, sponsors, and fans alike are eagerly awaiting a final announcement on the Asia Cup 2025 — especially the marquee India vs Pakistan match, which regularly draws hundreds of millions of viewers worldwide.
What’s Next?
As the ICC AGM kicks off in Singapore, eyes will be on the informal but crucial side meetings between BCCI and PCB. While an official ACC meeting is yet to be confirmed, sources indicate that a consensus on the venue and group arrangements may be reached before the end of the ICC summit.
This could finally bring an end to months of speculation, giving fans clarity on where the Asia Cup 2025 will be played — and whether we will see the much-awaited Indo-Pak clash on neutral ground once again.
