In the midst of escalating hostilities between Pakistan and India along the border, the cricketing relationship between the nations comes under further strain. Though already suspended in the case of bilateral series between the two nations, the deteriorating political situation now threatens multi-nation tournaments such as the Asia Cup.
BCCI Considers Pullout from Asia Cup 2025
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly considering withdrawing from the next Asia Cup 2025, which is to be held in India. This action will be a move to isolate Pakistan from the continental cricketing map, particularly since Pakistan’s Minister Mohsin Naqvi is currently the chairperson of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC).
With no India vs Pakistan fixture expected in the Asia Cup due to political tensions, the tournament’s commercial appeal has significantly diminished. These high-profile matches typically drive massive revenue, particularly from the Indian market, making their absence a critical blow to the event’s financial viability.
ACC Faces Financial Hit with BCCI’s Likely Exit
Indian pullout would severely economically burden the ACC. The majority of sponsors for the Asia Cup are Indian-based, and in the absence of India participation, the commercial model would be at risk of imploding. The ACC, now under Naqvi following Jay Shah’s assumption of the role of ICC chairman, would possibly not be able to hold on to its present broadcasting contracts.
BCCI Backs Government Position
Referring to the prevailing national mood, a BCCI official disclosed to The Indian Express, “The Indian team cannot participate in a tournament organized by the ACC, whose president happens to be a Pakistani minister. That’s the mood of the country. We have orally informed ACC regarding our withdrawal from the forthcoming Women’s Emerging Teams Asia Cup, and our future participation in their tournaments also is pending. We are keeping regular contact with the Indian government.”
Media Rights Deal under Risk
In 2024, the Asia Cup broadcasting rights were acquired by Sony Pictures Networks India for a whopping $170 million. However, with the possibility of BCCI pulling out, the media deal might have to be renegotiated or discarded altogether if the tournament does not take place as scheduled.
Hybrid Model in 2023, Uncertainty in 2025
In 2023, the Asia Cup was held in a hybrid format, with games staged throughout Sri Lanka and Pakistan. India ultimately emerged as the champion in Colombo, while Pakistan did not get that far. Such a hybrid format might not be feasible in the present political situation, though, so the future of the tournament is in doubt.
