BCCI Secretary Denies Reports Of India Pulling Out Of Asia Cup

In the wake of Operation Sindoor and Indian Army’s combat against cross-border terrorism in Pakistan, there have been reports suggesting that India have pulled out of the upcoming Asia Cup in September, and the Women’s Emerging Teams Asia Cup in Sri Lanka next month, but BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia has confirmed no such discussion has taken place. 

Speaking to the Times of India, Saikia said: "Since this morning, it has come to our notice about some news items about BCCI's decision not to participate in the Asia Cup and Women's Emerging Teams Asia Cup, both ACC's events.

"Such news are devoid of any truth as till now, the BCCI has not even discussed or taken any such steps regarding ensuing ACC events, leave alone writing anything to the ACC. At this stage, our prime focus is on the ongoing IPL and subsequent England series, both men and women."

"The Asia Cup matter or any other ACC event issue has not come up for discussion at any level, hence any news or report on that is purely speculative and imaginary. It may be said that the BCCI, as and when any discussion on any ACC events takes place and any important decision is reached, the same will be announced through the media.”

The continental showpiece event, which last took place in September 2023 in Pakistan and Sri Lanka, is due to happen in September 2025 with India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Sri Lanka taking part in the tournament. The reports said the decision was taken because the ACC is currently headed by PCB Chairman and Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.

While the Asia Cup is a big-ticket event for the broadcasters, with Sony holding the rights, not having India will have major ramifications, because of which the tournament is likely to be put on the back burner for now. Sony Sports Network won the rights for the tournament, paying 170 million USD for an eight-year contract, but now, if the tournament gets cancelled, it will be reworked once again.