The excitement for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, scheduled to begin on September 9, is building — but Pakistani cricket fans may face a major setback. According to a recent report by Dawn News, there is growing uncertainty over the TV broadcast rights for the tournament within Pakistan.
While Tamasha has already secured exclusive digital streaming rights till 2027, no local TV channel has yet acquired the rights to broadcast the matches on traditional television. This could leave millions of viewers in the country without access to live TV coverage of some of the most anticipated clashes in recent years — including up to three possible Pakistan vs India matches.
High Demands from Indian Broadcaster Cause Standstill
At the heart of the issue is the high license fee being demanded by the tournament’s Indian broadcaster. Pakistani TV networks are reportedly unwilling to match the asking price, especially given recent setbacks such as:
- Poor fan response and lower TV viewership for Pakistan matches during the T20 World Cup 2024,
- Early exit of the Pakistan team, resulting in significant financial losses for broadcasters,
- Uncertain outcomes and limited promotional window before the Asia Cup begins.
An official from a private sports channel told Dawn:
“The market response after the World Cup has been cold, and it is risky to invest in something without a guarantee of viewership. The current price doesn’t match the expected returns.”
Tamasha to Stream All Matches Digitally
In contrast to the TV deadlock, digital streaming is fully confirmed. On July 31, Tamasha — powered by Jazz — announced that it had obtained exclusive digital rights for all Asia Cup tournaments till 2027.
This includes:
- Men’s Asia Cups 2025 & 2027
- Men’s and Women’s Under-19 events
- Emerging Teams Asia Cups
With over 150 match days covered, Tamasha has secured its position as the go-to platform for online streaming of major cricket events in Pakistan. Cricket fans can catch all the action via the Tamasha app on Android, iOS, and Android TV.
What Does This Mean for Viewers?
If no local broadcaster steps in to purchase the rights, Pakistani viewers will be forced to rely entirely on digital platforms like Tamasha to watch the Asia Cup 2025. While digital viewership has grown rapidly, a large segment of the population still depends on traditional television, especially in rural areas and for communal viewing.
The risk of millions missing out on the Pakistan vs India clash on TV is a major concern for advertisers and fans alike.
Asia Cup 2025: Key Dates
- Start Date: September 9, 2025
- Format: T20 International
- Pakistan vs India Match: September 14
- Venue: United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Will a Deal Be Reached?
With less than six weeks to go, time is running out. Broadcasters may still attempt a last-minute deal if they believe viewership and advertising revenues can be salvaged. However, the risk appetite is low, and unless the rights holder lowers their asking price, Pakistani TV audiences may be left in the dark.
Until then, Tamasha remains the only confirmed way for fans in Pakistan to enjoy every ball of the Asia Cup 2025.
