Government gives green light for India-Pakistan matches in Asia Cup 2025
India’s high-profile participation in the Asia Cup 2025 is all but confirmed, with the Indian government giving the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) the go-ahead to face Pakistan in the upcoming tournament. This development ends months of uncertainty surrounding the marquee fixture, driven by political tensions between the two countries earlier this year.
The clearance was reportedly secured after the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) pushed for a timely decision, citing the financial stakes involved. An ACC meeting later this month in Dhaka is expected to focus on final preparations—but not India’s participation, which is now considered confirmed.
India vs Pakistan on the cards—likely twice
As per the tentative schedule, the Asia Cup 2025 will kick off on September 5 and run until September 21, with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) set to host the T20-format event. India and Pakistan are expected to face off twice—first on September 7 and again on September 14.
The India-Pakistan fixture remains the tournament’s most anticipated draw, often driving massive viewership, ticket sales, and commercial interest across global cricket markets.
Mandaviya confirms policy: No bilateral ties, but green light for international events
The confirmation from the Indian government was underlined by India’s Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, who addressed the matter in Parliament on Monday, July 14, while discussing the upcoming National Sports Governance Bill.
“Our stand is clear. We don’t have any problems playing with Pakistan in any international sporting event, be it cricket, hockey, or any other sport. But when it comes to bilateral engagements, the government position is known to all,” Mandaviya said.
This aligns with India’s long-standing policy of avoiding bilateral cricket ties with Pakistan, while allowing encounters at neutral venues and ICC or ACC-sanctioned international tournaments.
Tournament structure still evolving
While India’s participation is now secure, the Asia Cup 2025 may still see adjustments to its format. Originally planned as an eight-team competition, reports suggest the lineup could be reduced to six teams, as logistical challenges persist. Oman and Hong Kong had qualified, but their participation remains uncertain pending final tournament preparations.
The BCCI had earlier stated it would not make a decision on India’s involvement without government approval—an approach that has now resulted in a green light. With that in place, the spotlight shifts to the ACC’s next meeting to finalize the event schedule and format.
