NEW DELHI ( The COW News Digital) The Indian government has granted approval for the Indian men’s cricket team to participate in the Asia Cup 2025, including the much-anticipated match against Pakistan, paving the way for a high-profile clash next month.
The Ministry of Sports confirmed that India’s team will compete in the multinational tournament, emphasizing that matches against Pakistan are permitted under the framework of an international event, although bilateral series with Pakistan remain prohibited. “India and Pakistan may face each other in international tournaments like the Asia Cup, but no bilateral series will take place,” the ministry stated.
The announcement comes amid longstanding political sensitivities that have historically impacted sporting exchanges between the two nations. While Indian teams are not allowed to travel to Pakistan for bilateral matches, and vice versa, participation in multinational events provides a pathway for encounters between the cricketing rivals.
Under the new policy, India will follow the Asia Cup schedule, competing against Pakistan on September 14 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The tournament officially begins on September 9 and includes other top teams from the region, ensuring that matches against Pakistan occur within a broader competitive context.
Officials highlighted that the decision is in line with maintaining sports diplomacy while safeguarding domestic policies concerning cross-border sporting engagement. By allowing the teams to meet in a multinational setting, authorities aim to balance competitive cricketing interests with diplomatic considerations.
Cricket analysts predict that the highly anticipated India-Pakistan match will attract massive viewership globally, given the historic rivalry and the intensity of the teams’ encounters. Fans on both sides are eagerly awaiting the clash, with expectations of a high-stakes, closely contested game.
The Ministry of Sports also clarified that security and logistical arrangements for the Indian team will be strictly managed, ensuring that the players can participate safely without breaching any cross-border protocols. This move reflects an effort to promote international cricket engagement while respecting national policies.
The Asia Cup 2025 is expected to serve as a platform for renewed competitive spirit and sportsmanship between India and Pakistan. Cricketing authorities from both countries have expressed readiness to abide by tournament regulations, making the upcoming fixture one of the marquee events of the year.
