• Source:JND
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Asia Cup 2025: Despite significant geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan, a report in Pakistani media, specifically Tribune.com, claims that India is guaranteed to compete in the 2025 Asia Cup. This comes amidst ongoing uncertainty over whether the tournament will proceed at all, following the recent escalation of cross-border hostilities.

The already strained relationship between the two nations has further deteriorated since the tragic Pahalgam terror attack in April, and India's subsequent strong retaliatory response, "Operation Sindoor," which reportedly destroyed multiple terror camps in Pakistan in May.

Following these events, Indian media outlets had speculated that the Asia Cup 2025 might be scrapped if India chose not to participate. This concern is particularly relevant for Sony Pictures Networks India (SPN), which acquired the media rights for all Asian Cricket Council (ACC) tournaments, including the Asia Cup, from 2024 to 2031 at a base price of $170 million. For broadcasters to recover such a substantial investment, India's participation is considered imperative; a boycott could lead to broadcasters pulling out and, consequently, the tournament's cancellation.

Earlier in May, reports also suggested that the BCCI was hesitant to participate in a tournament headed by a Pakistani official, as the ACC is currently led by Mohsin Naqvi, who also chairs the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). However, the BCCI has since denied any intention of withdrawing from the Asia Cup, confirming they have not yet approached the ACC on the matter.

The recent report from Tribune.com suggests a significant development, claiming that the BCCI has now confirmed to the official broadcasters that India will indeed take part in the Asia Cup 2025, which is scheduled to be played in the T20I format. While nothing concrete has been formally announced by the ACC or BCCI, this report offers the most positive indication yet for the tournament's prospects.

“Sony has now also been told by the BCCI not to worry – India will play in the Asia Cup,” the report said.

It also stated that an Indian broadcaster has confirmed: “The tournament will be held in September. Our team will also participate.”

“No matter how strained the bilateral ties, India has never refused to play Pakistan in ICC events. The only reason is the lucrative media rights, mostly held by Indian broadcasters,” the report stated.

The report also added that the Asia Cup 2025 is expected to be held from 12 to 28 September in the UAE.