Asia Cup 2025 in jeopardy amid India-Pakistan standoff

Time is running out for Asia Cup 2025, with uncertainty growing over its future. The primary cause of the chaos is the ongoing political and sporting tensions between India and Pakistan.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has made it clear that it will not attend the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Annual General Meeting scheduled in Dhaka — a meeting that was expected to finalize the tournament’s schedule and venues.

If the ACC goes ahead with the meeting without BCCI’s participation, it may be deemed invalid. According to ACC rules, a quorum requires the presence of at least three permanent members. Currently, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has the backing of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), while the BCCI enjoys support from Sri Lanka Cricket and the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB).

In addition to the permanent members, a minimum of 10 associate members must attend to validate the AGM. As of now, the PCB hasn’t secured the necessary associate support, tipping the advantage toward BCCI.

Reports indicate that ACC President Mohsin Naqvi recently visited Kabul to convince the ACB to shift allegiances, but the attempt reportedly failed, with ACB reaffirming its commitment to BCCI.

Realistically, holding the Asia Cup without India would be financially damaging. Indian players draw massive global audiences, and advertisers and sponsors invest heavily based on India’s participation. Without them, the tournament risks severe revenue loss — something no board would willingly endure.

The coming days will be crucial. Whether a resolution is reached or the standoff deepens will likely determine the fate of Asia Cup 2025.