The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly decided to withdraw from all upcoming Asian Cricket Council (ACC) events, including the 2025 Men’s Asia Cup, as a diplomatic move to isolate Pakistan amid escalating cross-border tensions. This decision is influenced by the fact that the ACC is currently headed by Mohsin Naqvi, who serves as both Pakistan’s Interior Minister and the Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
Sources within the BCCI have indicated that participating in a tournament organized by an ACC led by a Pakistani minister is not acceptable, reflecting the prevailing sentiment in India. The BCCI has verbally communicated its withdrawal from the upcoming Women’s Emerging Teams Asia Cup in Sri Lanka and has put future participation in ACC events on hold.
This move raises significant concerns about the viability of the Asia Cup, which was scheduled to be hosted by India in September. India’s participation is crucial for the tournament’s financial success, with Indian companies comprising a large share of cricket sponsorships. In 2024, Sony Pictures Networks India secured the broadcasting rights for the Asia Cup in a deal worth USD 170 million for eight years. If the tournament is canceled, this agreement would need to be renegotiated.
However, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia has officially denied reports that the Indian board has decided to pull out of ACC events. He clarified that no such decision has been made and labeled the withdrawal claims as baseless.
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The situation remains fluid, and official confirmation from the BCCI is awaited to ascertain India’s participation in the upcoming ACC events.
