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).
Reports indicate that during a meeting held in Dhaka, the BCCI gave the green light to participate in the tournament. Following this approval, withdrawal from the event or the scheduled match against Pakistan is no longer under consideration.
The Asia Cup is scheduled to begin on 9 September, with the first Pakistan–India encounter slated for 14 September. Depending on the tournament’s progression, the two teams could meet up to three times.
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.
Despite rising domestic calls for withdrawal, reports assert that India, as the official host of the tournament, cannot step back at this stage. No change to the venue or match arrangements appears likely.
