NEW DELHI, 30 July – Amid rising tensions and speculation over the much-anticipated Asia Cup 2025 clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan, government sources on Wednesday dismissed the idea of a boycott, stating that such a move would effectively hand Pakistan a win by default.
The marquee group-stage encounter is scheduled for September 14 at the Dubai International Stadium, and sources close to the Indian government made it clear that India intends to compete as planned.
“This is not a bilateral series. If India refuses to play in such multilateral tournaments, it would benefit Pakistan; it would be akin to giving them a walkover,” the sources told reporters, emphasizing that sports and diplomacy must be approached differently in this context.
They further drew parallels with other global events. “If, during the Olympics, a Pakistani team or athlete is scheduled to play against India, why should India not compete and instead let Pakistan win? India should play and defeat Pakistan,” one official said.
The Asia Cup 2025, governed by the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), will feature both teams in Group A alongside host nations UAE and Oman. Despite political uncertainties, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly confirmed its participation in the tournament, following discussions at a recent ACC meeting.
BCCI insiders echoed the government’s stance. “The BCCI cannot withdraw from the tournament or the match now. The decision was agreed upon after the ACC meeting,” said a board official, speaking to IANS.
“Since India is the host nation, nothing can be changed at this stage. An official-level discussion took place, and the outcome was decided accordingly. The match will go ahead as scheduled,” the source added.
The India-Pakistan rivalry, often dubbed the biggest in world cricket, draws global viewership and generates immense fanfare, regardless of the political climate. With both sides committed, the Dubai clash is expected to be one of the tournament’s highlights.