Amid recent military tensions between Pakistan and India, the sporting rivalry between the two nations could soon return to center stage. The highly anticipated Asia Cup 2025, scheduled to take place from September 5 to 21, may once again feature the legendary India-Pakistan clash — with two high-voltage matches likely on September 7 and 14.
Government Green Light in Progress
According to recent developments, the Indian cricket team has reportedly received informal approval from its government to participate in the Asia Cup. While an official confirmation is still awaited, senior officials from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have stated that they are simply awaiting the final green signal from New Delhi.
Indian Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has also hinted at a more relaxed approach towards sporting events involving Pakistan. During a National Sports Governance meeting, he clearly stated that India has no objection to playing Pakistan in international tournaments — whether it’s cricket, hockey, or other sports. However, the government’s policy on bilateral series remains unchanged, maintaining a firm no-go.
High-Stakes ACC Meeting on July 24
A decisive moment in the fate of the tournament will come on July 24, when the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) holds a key meeting in Dhaka. ACC Chairman Mohsin Naqvi will preside over the session, which is expected to iron out the remaining issues surrounding the tournament’s venue and scheduling.
Inside sources suggest that Pakistan and Bangladesh are aligned in favor of holding the tournament as planned, while India is lobbying with Sri Lanka and other member nations to possibly push for changes or alternative arrangements. However, despite BCCI’s reservations, the venue of the meeting remains fixed in Dhaka.
Interestingly, the Indian board had recently postponed its own team’s tour of Bangladesh, citing political unrest in the region. Alongside this, they also pushed for a change in the venue and date of the upcoming ACC meeting — efforts that, so far, have not succeeded.
Massive Financial Stakes on the Line
India vs. Pakistan matches are known to be cash cows for broadcasters and sponsors. These games attract hundreds of millions of viewers across the globe and generate enormous revenue. The potential cancellation of the Asia Cup or India’s withdrawal could result in heavy financial losses for Indian broadcasters and corporate sponsors.
In recognition of this, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia recently addressed media rumors about a potential boycott. He denied claims of India’s withdrawal, stating that participation depends solely on the central government’s decision. He emphasized, “If the government says no, we will step back. Until then, we are fully prepared.”
Historic Rivalry and ICC Cooperation
Despite ongoing border tensions, it’s worth noting that both cricket boards — BCCI and PCB — have not objected to the International Cricket Council (ICC) grouping India and Pakistan together for the Women’s One-Day World Cup 2025. This is seen by analysts as a positive signal of continued collaboration in international cricket, even if bilateral series remain on hold.
India has not played a bilateral series with Pakistan since the 2012-13 season, with all encounters since then restricted to neutral venues and ICC or ACC tournaments. The consistent demand for these matches and their commercial value keeps the door open for more encounters in multi-nation events.
Uncertain but Hopeful Outlook
While the political climate between the two nations remains tense, cricket seems to be finding a separate path. The upcoming Asia Cup may serve as a platform for sports diplomacy, helping to cool down some of the geopolitical heat between the neighboring rivals.
However, everything depends on what transpires in the ACC meeting on July 24 and whether the Indian government issues formal approval in time. Until then, fans and organizers remain in suspense — but cautiously optimistic.
If the green light is given, not only will the Asia Cup proceed as planned, but cricket lovers worldwide will once again get to witness one of the most intense rivalries in sports history — India vs. Pakistan — on Asian soil.
