(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Countdown Begins for 2025 Asia Cup, UAE Likely Host as BCCI Decision Awaited
Preparations for the 2025 Asia Cup are now underway, with the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) reportedly setting a tentative schedule for September 12 to 28. According to experienced sports journalist Saleem Khaliq, the tournament is expected to be held in the United Arab Emirates, although India’s participation has yet to be formally confirmed.
Provisional Plans in Place
The ACC has earmarked the UAE as a preferred host due to its neutral venue status and proven infrastructure for international events. While no official announcement has been made by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), ACC sources indicate that India has not issued any objections in recent weeks, nor withdrawn from discussions.
Political Sensitivities Remain
As with past editions, the political relationship between India and Pakistan continues to influence planning. In 2023, a hybrid model was used when India opted not to play in Pakistan, and their matches were hosted in Sri Lanka instead. This flexible model remains an option for 2025 if needed.
Despite speculation, the BCCI has not endorsed any boycott. In fact, earlier reports suggesting India might skip the tournament were quickly refuted by board officials. Still, uncertainties persist, highlighted by recent promotional content that omitted Pakistan’s captain, sparking debate among fans and analysts.
Commercial and Sporting Interests Aligned
An India-Pakistan encounter remains one of the most anticipated events in world cricket, and from a commercial standpoint, it is a major driver of viewership and sponsorship. Encouragingly, the BCCI recently raised no objection to India and Pakistan being in the same group in the upcoming Women’s Cricket World Cup, giving optimism that a similar approach will apply to the Asia Cup.
Leadership and Finalization
With Mohsin Naqvi, Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), also heading the ACC, efforts are underway to finalize the tournament structure and secure participation from all member nations. Organizers are aiming to avoid last-minute changes, such as those seen in previous tournaments.
What’s Next?
As the cricketing world waits for an official response from the BCCI, the ACC is moving forward with its planning under the assumption that all major teams, including India, will take part. The coming weeks are expected to be pivotal in determining the final format and fixtures.
Cricket fans across Asia are hopeful that this iconic tournament will continue to bring together the best teams in the region, with the focus remaining on the field and not off it.
