Cricket fans can breathe a sigh of relief — the much-anticipated India vs Pakistan showdown in the Asia Cup 2025 is officially on. The Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) has confirmed the fixture will go ahead as scheduled, quashing speculation after India declined to face Pakistan in the privately run World Cricket League (WCL) earlier this year.
The ECB, which will host the tournament, issued a statement on Friday reaffirming that both teams are committed to fulfilling all Asia Cup fixtures. The assurance comes amid concerns that the political and sporting fallout from India’s WCL withdrawal could spill over into the continental championship.
“The Asia Cup is a premier event for Asian cricket, and all participating teams are fully aware of their commitments. We have received confirmation from both boards that all matches, including India vs Pakistan, will proceed as planned,” the ECB statement read.
India and Pakistan are expected to meet in the group stage, with the possibility of additional encounters in the Super Four and the final. Each clash between the two cricketing giants draws millions of viewers globally and dominates headlines far beyond the sport itself.
The controversy arose earlier this year when the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) declined to play Pakistan in the WCL, citing “security and logistical concerns.” The move sparked debates over sports diplomacy, especially in the aftermath of rising political tensions following the Pahalgam attack.
With the ECB’s confirmation, fans can now circle the dates on their calendars. The Asia Cup 2025 is set to be played across venues in the UAE from August 15 to September 7, promising high-octane cricket and, inevitably, high emotions when India and Pakistan take the field.
