New Delhi: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced its withdrawal from all upcoming Asian Cricket Council (ACC) events, including the Women’s Emerging Teams Asia Cup in Sri Lanka next month and the Men’s Asia Cup scheduled for September.
This decision follows the appointment of Pakistan’s Interior Minister and Pakistan Cricket Board chief, Mohsin Naqvi, as ACC chairman. A senior BCCI official cited national sentiment and coordination with the Indian government as reasons for not participating in tournaments led by a Pakistani minister.
India’s absence puts the Men’s Asia Cup, which India was set to host, in jeopardy. The tournament’s commercial appeal heavily depends on India-Pakistan matches, which draw large audiences and significant sponsorship. Sony Pictures Networks India holds the Asia Cup broadcasting rights in an eight-year deal worth around $170 million.
This move continues a pattern of disruptions due to India-Pakistan tensions, with similar impacts seen during the 2023 Asia Cup and the 2024 ICC Champions Trophy, both of which used hybrid hosting to avoid travel to Pakistan.
Since its founding in 1983, the ACC has been key to cricket development in Asia. However, ongoing geopolitical issues now threaten the future of regional cricket tournaments.
