BCCI Defends Asia Cup Participation Amid Political Opposition

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has affirmed its participation in the Asia Cup, despite mounting pressure from Indian political figures advocating for a boycott of the tournament.

Sources indicate that the BCCI is standing by its original choice to participate in the event and has no intention of withdrawing.

The board has communicated to political leaders that the decision to participate in the Asia Cup followed extensive deliberations over two months, emphasizing that it was not a hasty decision.

The BCCI has cautioned that withdrawing from the competition could have adverse consequences for India’s reputation in international sports and jeopardize its prospects of hosting future global sporting events.

Reports also suggest that a boycott could negatively impact India’s bids to host significant events, such as the Olympic Games 2036, the Commonwealth Games 2030, and the Youth Olympics 2032.

The BCCI has contended that refusing to compete against a specific nation in a multinational event would breach international sporting regulations.

While decisions regarding bilateral series can be determined between two countries, the board stated that withdrawing from multinational tournaments is a complex matter.

Meanwhile, criticism from Indian politicians regarding the decision to play in the Asia Cup persists. Priyanka Chaturvedi, a Shiv Sena member of parliament, voiced strong criticism of both the BCCI and the government.

In a social media post on X, formerly known as Twitter, she questioned the rationale behind allowing cricket matches with Pakistan while trade and other relations remain suspended.

She stated, “Name and Shame every sponsor, broadcaster, streaming app that attempts to profit from this India Pak match, because clearly BCCI and GoI are shamelessly proceeding with this match, leaving us Indian citizens to make our voices heard.”

The Asia Cup 2025 will utilize the T20 format, serving as essential preparation for teams ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, which India and Sri Lanka will jointly host in February.

A total of eight teams, divided into two groups, will compete for the title. Pakistan and India are in Group A, along with UAE and Oman, while Group B includes Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and Hong Kong.

The tournament will commence on September 9 with a Group B match between Afghanistan and Hong Kong.

Pakistan will begin their campaign against Oman on September 12, followed by a high-profile match against India on September 14. Their final group-stage match is scheduled against the UAE on September 17.

Complete schedule of ACC Men’s Asia Cup 2025

Super Four Stage:

September 28: Final