(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Asia Cup 2025 Faces Broadcast Crisis in Pakistan Amid High Rights Cost & Political Uncertainty
LAHORE: The much-anticipated Asia Cup 2025, featuring cricket giants India and Pakistan, is now facing an unexpected hurdle—broadcasting rights issues in Pakistan.
According to sources, the official broadcaster, based in India, has set exorbitantly high rates for Pakistan’s region, making it nearly impossible for local sports channels to afford coverage. The broadcasting rights were secured in a $170 million pan-Asia deal, but Pakistan is now being asked to pay 25% of the value—far higher than the traditional 10–12% contribution.
Pakistan Channels in a Tough Spot
Pakistan’s broadcasters are now considering forming a joint consortium or potentially pulling out altogether. One insider remarked, “The market is unstable, and these inflated rates could destabilize the entire broadcast ecosystem.”
This issue is compounded by another major concern: uncertainty over an India-Pakistan clash. If the two teams do not face off during the tournament, broadcasters fear a major loss in viewership and ad revenue.
Adding to the pressure is the fact that Asia Cup digital rights have already been sold to a Pakistan-based consortium for $4.3 million, further complicating the matter for TV broadcasters.
Economic Pressures and Poor Team Performance
Pakistan’s TV ad revenues have already dropped over 22% year-on-year, while corporate sponsorships have plummeted. Local channels are reluctant to commit large sums for broadcasting rights under such unstable commercial conditions.
The situation is worsened by the Pakistan cricket team’s recent underperformance, including a T20 series loss in Bangladesh and struggles in the Champions Trophy 2025. Poor on-field results have significantly reduced fan engagement and sponsor interest.
A TV official revealed, “When the team is winning, enthusiasm is high and brands are eager to invest. But the current scenario has put the market on the back foot.”
Political Tensions and Regional Pressure
Political tensions are also playing a critical role. India’s domestic pressure has led to uncertainty about its participation. The BCCI is reportedly under pressure from fans and media, which recently led to India refusing to play a Legends semi-final against Pakistan.
Insiders suggest the BCCI might step back from hosting the Asia Cup and could even withdraw its team altogether, especially as public backlash intensifies.
The Road Ahead
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), led by Mohsin Naqvi, who is also heading the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), is now facing a critical challenge. While Naqvi recently hosted a successful ACC meeting in Dhaka, the fate of the Asia Cup 2025 now hangs in the balance.
Negotiations are ongoing between Pakistani broadcasters and the official rights holder, but a resolution remains uncertain. If no agreement is reached, millions of Pakistani cricket fans could miss out on watching one of the year’s biggest sporting events.
