The recent terror attack in Pahalgam has sparked serious concerns over the Asia Cup 2025, scheduled for September. Although the BCCI is officially listed as the host for this edition, the tournament’s future — and its venue — now hang in uncertainty due to escalating geopolitical tensions, particularly between India and Pakistan.
The attack in Kashmir’s Pahalgam, where 26 civilians lost their lives on April 22, has raised questions about whether India will proceed with hosting, and more crucially, whether Pakistan will be allowed to participate. In light of the sensitive situation, Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar weighed in, suggesting that Pakistan’s involvement seems highly unlikely under the current circumstances.
“BCCI has always followed the Indian government’s directives. I don’t expect that approach to change for the Asia Cup,” Sunil Gavaskar told India Today. “If the situation remains the same, I don’t see Pakistan participating in a tournament co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.”
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Gavaskar went a step further, predicting a potential overhaul of the tournament’s structure — or even the disbanding of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). According to him, the Asia Cup might morph into a smaller competition if the geopolitical tensions continue to escalate.
“We could end up seeing a tri-nation or a four-nation tournament if the ACC breaks up. Teams like UAE or Hong Kong might be invited to join, but the traditional format may no longer be viable,” Sunil Gavaskar speculated.
He also hinted that India could withdraw from the ACC entirely and independently organise a tournament involving nations like Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan. “If India steps away from the ACC, a four or five-team event can still happen, possibly in Bangladesh or Sri Lanka — even if India remains the official host,” he added.
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Given the current climate, Gavaskar’s insights echo the uncertainty that looms over the Asia Cup. While cricket has often brought the region together, the safety of players and fans will remain paramount. What unfolds over the next few months will likely shape not only the fate of this tournament but also the future of cricketing ties in the region.
