In a move that has triggered widespread speculation among cricket fans, Pakistan’s participation in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 is now under question — all thanks to a promotional poster released by the tournament’s official broadcaster, Sony Sports.
The poster, intended to promote the highly anticipated continental tournament, featured the captains of India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. Notably absent, however, was any representation from Pakistan. This omission has raised eyebrows across the cricketing world, sparking rumors that the Men in Green might not feature in this year’s competition.
Ongoing Political Tensions Amplify Speculations
The Asia Cup 2025 is scheduled to take place in September, in the T20 format, ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Although India holds the official hosting rights, the event is expected to be shifted to the United Arab Emirates due to ongoing political tensions between India and Pakistan.
After the recent border skirmishes and a breakdown in diplomatic ties, the feasibility of a direct clash between the two cricketing giants has once again been cast into doubt.
Is Pakistan Really Out?
So far, no official statement has been made by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) or the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) regarding Pakistan’s exclusion. However, the broadcaster’s poster has raised genuine concerns among fans and media alike.
To add to the confusion, past reports suggested that India was considering pulling out of the tournament after PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi assumed the presidency of the ACC. However, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia later denied these reports, stating:
“Such news is devoid of any truth as till now. BCCI has not even discussed or taken any such steps regarding the ensuing ACC events.”
Still, the absence of Pakistan in the latest visuals does little to calm the growing uncertainty around the event.
Asia Cup 2025: What’s Confirmed So Far
- Format: T20
- Tentative Schedule: September 2025
- Official Host: India
- Likely Venue: UAE (Neutral ground)
- Broadcaster: Sony Sports, which has secured ACC rights till 2031
Sony’s recent acquisition of all ACC media rights until 2031 at a whopping $170 million further complicates the matter. This includes marquee events like India vs Pakistan — the biggest draw in Asian cricket.
Looking Ahead
Whether this omission is an oversight or a preview of decisions taken behind closed doors, it is evident that Asia Cup 2025 is once again mired in uncertainty. The ACC has yet to release the full schedule or confirm the venue officially, leaving fans with more questions than answers.
For now, all eyes remain on the Asian Cricket Council and the PCB to clarify Pakistan’s participation. One thing is clear: without Pakistan, the Asia Cup will lose one of its most vital rivalries and most-watched contests.
