Despite growing political pressure and public outcry, India is unlikely to forfeit their high-stakes Asia Cup 2025 match against arch-rivals Pakistan, Indian media reported on Tuesday. The much-anticipated clash is scheduled for September 14 in the UAE.
Backlash from Indian Media and Politicians
Following the official release of the Asia Cup 2025 schedule, several Indian media outlets, politicians, and former cricketers expressed dissatisfaction over India playing Pakistan in a multinational tournament. A segment of the Indian public has been demanding a boycott of the fixture, citing ongoing political tensions between the two nations.
However, sources familiar with the matter told Indian media that skipping the match would amount to giving a walkover to Pakistan — a move that could provide a strategic edge to the Babar Azam-led team and damage India’s standing in the tournament.
“This is not a bilateral contest but a match in a multi-nation tournament. If India does not play or forfeits the match, it will give Pakistan a huge advantage. This will be like giving them a walkover, which is not desirable,” the source said.
Financial Ramifications for ACC
Reports also indicate that boycotting the match could have severe financial implications not only for broadcasters but also for the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). The India-Pakistan clash is a major revenue driver in terms of global viewership and sponsorship.
If India withdraws, it may lead to significant losses for broadcasters and, consequently, for all ACC members — with the exception of the financially robust BCCI.
BCCI Yet to Respond Officially
India’s Ministry of Sports has clarified that it does not currently have jurisdiction over the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), as the National Sports Governance Bill has yet to be passed. Therefore, the ministry has no say in whether India plays the Asia Cup clash but is monitoring the situation.
“As of now, the BCCI does not come under the purview of the sports ministry… we will wait and see how the BCCI responds to public sentiment,” a source from the sports ministry stated.
High-Stakes Battle on September 14
India and Pakistan are set to face each other in the group stage on September 14 in the UAE. With the tournament’s format allowing multiple encounters, the fierce rivals could potentially meet two more times — in the Super Four stage and the final.
Given the significance of the fixture — both competitively and commercially — most signs point to India going ahead with the match despite the ongoing debate.
