India unlikely to withdraw from Asia Cup 2025: reports

Asia Cup 2025
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ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): India are set to remain the host of the 2025 Asia Cup and will play against Pakistan as per the announced schedule, according to reports quoting sources close to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

Earlier this week, several media outlets claimed that India was planning to skip the Asia Cup 2025 due to political tensions with Pakistan. These rumors sparked concern among fans who were eagerly waiting for the highly anticipated India vs Pakistan clash. However, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia clarified that no such decision had been made and that India remained committed to participating in the upcoming tournament.

The Asia Cup 2025 is scheduled to be held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from September 9 to 28, under the banner of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). All major Asian cricket nations, including Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan, are expected to take part. The tournament could potentially feature more than one India vs Pakistan match, depending on the teams’ progress.

Despite recent political strains, cricket boards and ACC officials are hopeful that the Asia Cup 2025 will proceed smoothly. Former cricketers and fans alike have expressed relief at India’s continued participation, as their absence could have overshadowed the tournament.

Following the official release of the schedule, sections of the Indian media sharply criticised both the BCCI and the government, questioning the decision to go ahead with the match against Pakistan. Comparisons were drawn to calls for a boycott similar to those raised during the World Champions League.

Former Indian cricketers also voiced criticism over the decision to play against Pakistan, with some demanding a boycott.

Sources within the Indian board confirmed that discussions at the governmental level preceded the final decision. However, the BCCI has not commented publicly on any potential boycott following the schedule’s announcement.

Former Pakistani spinner Danish Kaneria also joined the conversation, questioning India’s selective stance—referring to their withdrawal from some events while staying committed to others like the Asia Cup 2025.

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