The Indian government has made its stance clear regarding sporting events involving Pakistan, particularly in the context of the upcoming Asia Cup 2025. While bilateral sporting clashes between India and Pakistan remain off the table, the Indian cricket team will participate in the multi-lateral Asia Cup, where they are scheduled to face Pakistan.
This decision comes as the Sports Ministry unveiled a new policy regarding India's international sporting engagements, with a specific emphasis on interactions with Pakistan. According to sources within the ministry, the policy is effective immediately. The core principle is that while direct, bilateral sports events between the two nations will not be permitted, participation in international and multi-lateral events will be allowed.
"In terms of bilateral sports, Indian teams will not compete in Pakistan, nor will Pakistani teams be permitted to play in India," a source stated. However, the source added, "We will not prevent the Indian cricket team from participating in the Asia Cup as it is a multilateral event." This stance aligns with the Olympic Charter and acknowledges India's position as a credible host for international sporting events.
The Asia Cup 2025 is scheduled to begin on September 9, with the highly anticipated India vs. Pakistan match set for September 14 in Dubai. The tournament will follow the T20 International format. The Sports Ministry's policy clarifies that while Pakistan will not be allowed on Indian soil for bilateral competitions, the government respects multilateral events. This allows the Indian team to participate in the Asia Cup, even with Pakistan as a participant.
The decision arrives amidst public reaction to the India vs Pakistan match in the Asia Cup.
India's squad for the Asia Cup 2025 has already been announced, with Suryakumar Yadav as captain and Shubman Gill as vice-captain. The team includes players such as Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Verma, Hardik Pandya, and Jasprit Bumrah. Pakistan has also revealed its squad, which will be led by Salman Ali Agha.
The Asia Cup 2025 is significant as it is the only multi-team tournament India will participate in before the 2026 T20 World Cup. India, being the reigning Asia Cup champions and having won the most titles (8), will aim to defend their title.
Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram has also shared his views on the upcoming India vs Pakistan match, stating that the game should go on despite any tensions. He expressed confidence that Pakistan would be fine whether they play or not.
In summary, while the Indian government maintains its policy of no bilateral sporting events with Pakistan, it has made an exception for the multi-lateral Asia Cup, allowing the Indian cricket team to participate and face Pakistan in the tournament. This decision is in line with India's approach to international sporting events and its commitment to the Olympic Charter.
