Indian cricket board denies reports of withdrawal from Asia Cup tournaments

Dubai: The Indian cricket board has dismissed reports suggesting it has pulled out of upcoming Asian Cricket Council (ACC) events, calling them “speculative and imaginary.”

Earlier in the day, several media outlets claimed that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had informed the ACC of its decision to withdraw from both the Women’s Emerging Teams Asia Cup next month and the Men’s Asia Cup in September. However, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia issued a strong denial.

“Since this morning, it has come to our notice about some news reports that the BCCI has decided not to participate in the Asia Cup and the Women’s Emerging Teams Asia Cup. Such news is devoid of any truth,” Saikia told ANI.

“Till now, BCCI has not even discussed or taken any such steps regarding the ensuing ACC events, let alone writing anything to the ACC. At this stage, our prime focus is on the ongoing IPL [Indian Premier League] and the subsequent England series, both men’s and women’s,” he added.

The now-refuted reports surfaced after the Indian government announced a halt in ties with Pakistan following recent geopolitical developments. Cricket has often reflected the broader state of relations between the two countries, with bilateral ties suspended since 2012—13.

In 2023, similar circumstances led to the Men’s Asia Cup being played in a hybrid format after India declined to travel to Pakistan. All of India’s matches were held in Sri Lanka, where they eventually defeated the hosts in the final to claim the title.

If India were to skip this year’s edition, which features Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Sri Lanka, the event would lose its most anticipated fixture — the India—Pakistan clash — dealing a significant blow to sponsorship and global viewership.

Recent ICC events involving both countries have been held under a neutral venue arrangement. After extensive discussions last year, India and Pakistan agreed that all fixtures between them at ICC events during the 2024—27 rights cycle would be played at neutral venues.

“India and Pakistan matches hosted by either country at ICC events during the 2024—2027 rights cycle will be played at a neutral venue,” the ICC Board confirmed in a statement.

That agreement allowed the 2025 ICC Men’s Champions Trophy to go ahead, with Pakistan hosting the tournament while India played their matches in Dubai. India remained unbeaten and lifted the trophy.

The same model will apply to the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 in India, the Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, and the 2028 Women’s T20 World Cup in Pakistan.

While uncertainty remains over India’s participation in upcoming ACC tournaments, the BCCI has reiterated that no decision has been made.

“As and when any discussion on ACC events takes place and any important decision is reached, the same will be announced through the media,” Saikia said.

For now, the board remains focused on the IPL and preparations for the England series — one that will mark a new chapter for Indian cricket following the retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.