Veteran cricket in Asia is set to witness a landmark moment with the launch of the first-ever Asian Legends Cup, confirmed by the Board for Veteran Cricket in India (BVCI). This newly introduced championship brings together 40-plus cricketers from across the continent, offering retired and seasoned players a competitive stage once again. Scheduled from January 28 to February 4 in Chiang Mai, Thailand, the tournament will feature six teams: India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, UAE, and Hong Kong—marking a major step toward formalising veterans’ cricket at an international level.
BVCI President Praveen Tyagi called the event a “historic step” for Indian veteran cricket. Reflecting on the journey, he said, “For the first time, an Indian veterans’ team will compete in an Asia-level championship. This is a dream we’ve nurtured for years.” What elevates the excitement further is the inclusion of several former international stars who are set to take the field once again.
According to Tyagi, Pakistan’s squad is likely to feature Shoaib Malik as captain, alongside players like Abdul Razzaq, with legendary pacer Wasim Akram expected to join as coach. Every participating team will include three to four former internationals along with top domestic veterans, giving the tournament both star value and competitive balance.
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India’s squad is expected to be unveiled soon, with familiar names such as Praveen Kumar, Jatin Saxena, Shadab Jakati, and Manoj Prabhakar among the frontrunners. Selections have been made based on performances in the recently concluded inter-zonal veterans’ events, ensuring that form and fitness remain central to the process.
Tyagi also shed light on the longstanding ecosystem that inspired the tournament’s creation. Veteran cricket in India has existed for over 26 years, with the BVCI, established by the late Chetan Chauhan in 1998, helping retired cricketers stay connected to the sport they devoted their lives to. The Asian Legends Cup, he explained, is a natural extension, mainly because countries like Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh also run structured veterans’ circuits.
Thailand’s selection as the host country was driven by neutrality, accessibility, and logistical support. With local organisers providing grounds and accommodation, the venue became an ideal choice for a financially modest board like the BVCI.
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The championship will be streamed live worldwide via YouTube and FanCode, offering fans a chance to reconnect with their favourite former stars. While questions about India’s policy on playing Pakistan remain, league CEO Tarunesh Parihar emphasised the unifying power of sport: “If this championship brings people together, that message itself is meaningful.”
With strong enthusiasm and international participation, the Asian Legends Cup is expected to become an annual event—laying the groundwork for an ambitious Veterans’ World Cup in the future.
