ISLAMABAD: India is unlikely to forfeit its high-profile Asia Cup 2025 match against Pakistan despite growing calls for a boycott, Indian media reported on Tuesday, refusing to hand their arch-rivals an easy walkover.
The announcement of the Asia Cup schedule unleashed a fresh storm in India, with voices from the media, politicians, and former cricketers demanding a boycott of the high-voltage contest.
The match will go ahead as planned, with tournament rules penalising any team that refuses to play — a loss that India’s Suryakumar Yadav-led side cannot afford.
“This isn’t just a bilateral fixture; it’s part of a larger multi-nation tournament,” an Indian source said as quoted by India Express.
“To forfeit would mean gifting Pakistan a huge advantage — essentially handing them a walkover. That’s simply not acceptable.”
Adding to the complexity is the Indian sports ministry’s position. Currently, the ministry lacks authority over the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) pending the passage of the National Sports Governance Bill.
“We are watching closely, but the decision ultimately lies with the BCCI,” a ministry insider said as quoted by Hindustan Times.
Fans across the subcontinent await the showdown scheduled for September 14, with the possibility of the two powerhouses clashing up to three times during the tournament.
Indian media outlets warn that any withdrawal would not only disappoint fans but also trigger substantial financial losses for broadcasters and the Asian Cricket Council (ACC).
