India–Pakistan set for Asia Cup showdown as policy clears participation
The Indian government has formally cleared the way for India’s cricket team to play Pakistan in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, scheduled to begin September 9 in the UAE. The highly anticipated group-stage match is set for September 14 in Dubai, with possible rematches in the Super Four and the final.
The Sports Ministry reaffirmed India’s position on avoiding bilateral cricketing relations with Pakistan, especially on home soil or through reciprocal tours. The official policy outlined India’s stance on bilateral and multilateral participation, offering a framework that balances diplomatic sensitivities with sporting obligations.
The announcement comes amid heightened public and political tensions following the Pahalgam attack, which killed 26 civilians and triggered calls for a boycott of all sporting ties with Pakistan.
Ministry confirms no bilateral ties, multilateral participation allowed
The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports laid out its updated position in an official policy statement, clearly distinguishing between bilateral and multilateral sporting engagements.
“India’s approach to sports events involving Pakistan reflects its overall policy in dealing with that country. In so far as bilateral sports events in each other’s country are concerned, Indian teams will not be participating in competitions in Pakistan. Nor will we permit Pakistani teams to play in India.”
“With regard to international and multilateral events, in India or abroad, we are guided by the practices of international sports bodies and the interest of our own sportspersons. It is also relevant to take into account India’s emergence as a credible venue to host international sports events.”
“Accordingly, Indian teams and individual players will take part in international events that also have teams or players from Pakistan. Similarly, Pakistani players and teams will be able to participate in such multilateral events hosted by India.”
To further support India’s bid as a leading host nation for global tournaments, the ministry introduced visa liberalization measures and formal protocol commitments.
“To position India as a preferred destination for hosting international sporting events, the visa process for sportspersons, team officials, technical personnel, and office-bearers of International Sports Governing Bodies shall be simplified. In respect of office-bearers of International Sports Governing Bodies, a multi-entry visa shall be granted on priority basis for the duration of their official tenure, subject to a maximum period of five years. This shall facilitate their smooth movement into and within the country, in accordance with international norms. Due protocol and courtesies, as per established practice, shall be extended to the Heads of International Sports Governing Bodies during their visits to India.”
Ministry source confirms Asia Cup participation, reiterates policy limits
While the ministry’s statement laid out the broader framework, further clarity came from a ministry source, speaking to news agency PTI, who emphasized that India’s participation in the Asia Cup falls well within the approved guidelines for multilateral events.
“We will not stop Indian cricket team from playing in Asia Cup as it is multilateral.”
“But Pakistan will not be allowed on Indian soil for bilateral competitions. But we will not stop them from multilateral events as we will abide by Olympic Charter.”
With this policy, the Indian government has drawn a firm line between acceptable multilateral participation and off-limits bilateral engagements—ensuring that the Asia Cup 2025 goes ahead as scheduled, while reinforcing India’s broader diplomatic stance.
