India cleared to play Pakistan in Asia Cup in Dubai

Dubai: India have been cleared to participate in the Asia Cup after days of speculation, political debate and public outrage following the Pahalgam terror attack. The Union Sports Ministry confirmed on Thursday that while bilateral cricket with Pakistan remains suspended, India has no objection to playing them in multilateral events, including the Asia Cup. The marquee clash between the two sides is scheduled for September 14 in Dubai.

The clarification came alongside the announcement of India’s 15-member squad for the eight-team continental tournament, with Suryakumar Yadav set to lead the side. The squad balances experience and form, with selectors opting for a blend of established names and emerging players as India seek to defend their title.

Policy reaffirmed

In a statement issued to ANI, the Sports Ministry reiterated that India will not engage in bilateral sports exchanges with Pakistan, nor will Pakistani teams be permitted to play in India. However, Indian athletes and teams are free to compete in multilateral tournaments featuring Pakistan, whether staged abroad or in India.

“India’s approach to sports events involving Pakistan reflects its overall policy in dealing with that country,” the ministry said. “In so far as bilateral sports events in each other’s countries are concerned, Indian teams will not be participating in competitions in Pakistan. Nor will we permit Pakistani teams to play in India. With regard to international and multilateral events, in India or abroad, we are guided by the practices of international sports bodies and the interest of our own sportspersons.”

The ministry also announced a simplified visa regime for athletes, team officials and international federation representatives, including multi-entry visas of up to five years for office-bearers of global sports bodies. The move is aimed at reinforcing India’s credentials as a hub for major international tournaments.

Earlier signals of clearance

The latest announcement formalises remarks made by Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya in July, when he had hinted that India had no objection to facing Pakistan in multilateral events. His comments at the time were interpreted as an early green light for the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to prepare for the Asia Cup, though the board insisted on waiting for formal approval.

The Asian Cricket Council had even floated contingency plans, including a hybrid model similar to the 2023 edition, when India played all its matches in Sri Lanka. Thursday’s statement removes any remaining uncertainty.

Backdrop of tension

The Asia Cup build-up has been overshadowed by the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir, since then the diplomatic relations between the two neighbours has further strained relations. Against that backdrop, the prospect of an India—Pakistan fixture had triggered sharp reactions, forcing the government to clarify its stance.

Pakistan arrive with new-look squad

While India cleared its participation, Pakistan’s preparations are also gathering pace. The T20 squad, led by Salman Agha, arrived in Dubai on Wednesday and will start training at the ICC Academy from Thursday.

In a major shake-up, former captains Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan have been sidelined following a contract overhaul. Head coach Mike Hesson said Babar is working on aspects of his game, particularly against spin, while the current squad has been rewarded for consistent performances.

The team welcomes back fast bowlers Mohammad Wasim and Salman Mirza, and opener Fakhar Zaman, who missed the recent ODI series against West Indies due to injury. Pakistan will first compete in a tri-series against Afghanistan and hosts UAE, starting August 29 in Sharjah, before beginning their Asia Cup campaign against Oman on September 12.

Countdown to Dubai clash

With India’s clearance, Pakistan’s squad shake-up and both sides assembling in the UAE, the stage is set for the September 14 clash in Dubai — a fixture that continues to transcend cricket, drawing global attention as much for its political backdrop as for the cricketing contest.