Despite rising tensions following a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, the high-stakes Asia Cup 2025 match between India and Pakistan is set to go ahead on 14 September in the UAE.
Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly has expressed that while the Pahalgam incident was deeply tragic, it should not prevent international cricket from continuing. He stated that terrorism must be condemned, but sporting events like the Asia Cup should not be halted by violence.
The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) recently revealed the full schedule of the tournament, confirming the India-Pakistan fixture. This announcement sparked debate in Indian media, with some voices urging the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to pull out of the match.
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However, reports suggest that the BCCI has no plans to back out. Sources close to the board indicated that India had already given approval during an ACC meeting in Dhaka to participate fully. As India is the official host nation for this year’s tournament, officials have reportedly ruled out any possibility of withdrawing.
A senior cricket official was quoted as saying that the decision to play had already been made and reversing it at this stage would be highly unlikely.
The Asia Cup 2025 will begin on 9 September, with Afghanistan taking on Hong Kong in the opening match. A total of eight teams will compete in the T20 format, using the event as preparation for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, to be hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
Pakistan will kick off their campaign against Oman on 12 September and face the UAE five days later.