The much-anticipated India vs Pakistan clash at the Asia Cup 2025 is set to take place in Dubai on Sunday, September 14. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly distancing itself from the high-voltage encounter, with senior officials unlikely to be present at the venue.
Silent boycott by BCCI?
According to reports, neither ICC chairman Jay Shah nor key BCCI office-bearers have flown to Dubai for the fixture. Sources suggest this could amount to an “invisible boycott” of the tie, amid nationwide outrage following the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia is preoccupied with preparations for the upcoming ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup and will not attend the match. IPL chairman Arun Dhumal has also chosen to skip the clash. Acting president Rajiv Shukla, who represents India in the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), is the only official likely to be present.
Government’s stance and BCCI’s position
The BCCI has reiterated that it will abide by the Indian government’s directions. While bilateral cricket with Pakistan remains suspended, India continues to face Pakistan in multi-nation tournaments as per policy.
“So far as the BCCI’s view is concerned, we have to follow whatever the central government formalises. Recently, our policy regarding India’s participation in multinational tournaments clearly states that there are no restrictions imposed by the central government on playing against countries not on good terms with India. So, India has to play all matches in such tournaments,” Saikia had clarified earlier.
Background
The speculation of a boycott comes at a time when calls to cancel the match have grown louder. Several fans and public voices have argued against India taking the field against Pakistan following recent terror incidents. Despite the pressure, the government cleared India’s participation, ensuring the game goes ahead as scheduled.
