The debate surrounding India’s potential boycott of the Asia Cup 2025 has officially come to rest. Despite public uproar and calls from sections of the Indian media and ex-cricketers, India will play the tournament and face Pakistan on September 14, as confirmed by reliable sources within the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
India, As Host, Cannot Withdraw
Following the official release of the Asia Cup 2025 schedule, a wave of criticism emerged in India regarding the high-voltage India vs Pakistan clash. However, sources close to the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) revealed that India, as the tournament host, cannot back out of the event or any scheduled fixture — including the one against Pakistan.
“The BCCI cannot withdraw from the tournament or the match now. The decision was agreed upon after the ACC meeting. Since India is the host nation, nothing can be changed at this stage,” a BCCI official told media on Sunday.
This decision was reportedly finalized during the recent ACC meeting held in Dhaka, where India gave a green signal to the full tournament schedule, ruling out any possibility of withdrawal or rescheduling.
Backlash from Media and Former Cricketers
Following the release of the official schedule, several Indian news outlets launched sharp criticism against the BCCI, questioning the decision to play against Pakistan given the ongoing political tensions. A few former Indian cricketers also joined the chorus, urging the board to reconsider.
But official sources within the BCCI clarified that no internal discussion post-schedule announcement suggested a boycott, and no such public or internal stance was ever officially endorsed.
India vs Pakistan Set for September 14
As per the Asia Cup 2025 schedule, India and Pakistan are placed in the same group, and will clash in a blockbuster match on September 14. The event will kick off on September 9 with Afghanistan vs Hong Kong, and India will open its campaign with a match against UAE on September 11.
If results go as expected, fans might witness India vs Pakistan clashes up to three times — in the group stage, Super Four, and even the Final.
Political Climate vs Sporting Commitment
While political tensions between India and Pakistan have often impacted bilateral cricket ties, multi-nation events like the Asia Cup are governed by the ACC and ICC regulations, which member boards agree upon collectively.
This time, the BCCI’s role as host meant that any withdrawal would not only create controversy but also risk their standing within the ACC.
Final Word
Despite growing noise in the media and political pressure, India has officially committed to participating in the Asia Cup 2025, including the much-anticipated match against Pakistan. With the schedule now confirmed, fans can gear up for one of the biggest cricketing rivalries in the world.
