The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has categorically denied recent media reports suggesting that it plans to withdraw from the Asia Cup and the Women’s Emerging Teams Asia Cup amid heightened India-Pakistan tensions.
On May 19, 2025, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia clarified that the reports claiming BCCI has decided to stay away from the Asia Cricket Council (ACC) events later this year are completely unfounded.
 "BCCI Denies Reports of Asia Cup Exit; Secretary Devajit Saikia Says Focus is on IPL 2025 and India’s England Tour 2")
BCCI’s Official Response
“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, both ACC events. Such news are devoid of any truth as till now,” Saikia told ANI News.
He added, “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 2025 and subsequent England series, both men’s and women’s.”
Upcoming Asia Cup 2025
India is set to host the Asia Cup later this year, featuring eight qualified teams including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates. The tournament is expected to be played in the fast-paced T20 format.
However, due to ongoing political tensions, Pakistan will not be traveling to India for their matches. Instead, Pakistan’s games, including the one against India, will be held at a neutral venue, continuing the hybrid hosting format seen in recent years.
For background, Asia Cup 2023 was hosted in a similar hybrid model where Pakistan hosted some matches, and India played all games in Dubai.
Context of the Reports
The rumors stemmed from an Indian Express report claiming that following Jay Shah’s resignation, the ACC, now led by Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi, received communication from BCCI about withdrawal from ACC events.
So far, BCCI has denied sending any such communication or making any decisions about pulling out from ACC events.
Looking Ahead
While the India-Pakistan tensions have raised concerns about the participation logistics, the BCCI remains focused on ensuring smooth preparations for IPL 2025 and the critical England tours ahead.
For the latest updates on India’s cricket schedule, visit the official BCCI website and follow trusted cricket news portals like ESPN Cricinfo.
