India-Pakistan Clash Approved for 2025 Asia Cup in Dubai
Government Greenlights India-Pakistan Match
On September 14, the highly anticipated match between India and Pakistan during the 2025 Asia Cup in Dubai has received approval from the Indian government. The Ministry of Sports announced on Thursday a new policy emphasizing India's stance on international engagements with Pakistan, confirming that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will not be prevented from participating in this match, although bilateral cricket relations remain suspended.
Policy on Bilateral Sports Events
The Indian government maintains its firm policy against participating in bilateral sporting events with Pakistan. On August 21, the Ministry stated that Indian teams would not travel to Pakistan, nor would they host Pakistani teams for any bilateral series. However, this restriction does not apply to multilateral tournaments like the World Cup and the Olympics, where both nations compete under international governing bodies. These events are held at neutral or third-party venues, ensuring no direct bilateral arrangements and fostering a politically neutral environment for competition.
Asia Cup Matches Scheduled
A source from the ministry confirmed that India will not be barred from playing against Pakistan in the Asia Cup organized by the Asian Cricket Council. The high-profile matches between India and Pakistan are set to take place on September 14 and potentially on September 21 in Dubai, with the final scheduled for September 29. This tournament will be played in the T20 international format ahead of the T20 World Cup next year, further clarifying India's new approach to international sporting events.
India's Stance on Sports Events
The ministry articulated that India's perspective on sporting events involving Pakistan reflects its broader policy towards the country. Regarding bilateral sports events held in each other's territories, Indian teams will not participate in competitions in Pakistan, nor will Pakistani teams be allowed to play in India. However, for international and multilateral events, whether hosted in India or abroad, India is guided by the practices of international sports bodies and the interests of its athletes. It is also relevant to consider India's emergence as a reliable venue for hosting international sports events.
Official Statement
"In so far as bilateral sports events in each other's country are concerned, Indian teams will not be participating in competitions in Pakistan. Nor will we permit Pakistani teams to play in India": Ministry of Youth and Affairs, Govt of India pic.twitter.com/s1P0b1AbTT
— News Media (@NewsMedia) August 21, 2025