New Delhi, May 3, 2025: Former Indian cricket captain and renowned commentator Sunil Gavaskar has drawn criticism for making strongly worded comments about Pakistan’s participation in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, following the recent Pahalgam incident in Indian-administered Kashmir.
In a recent interview, Gavaskar suggested that Pakistan might not be allowed to take part in the tournament due to rising political tensions. “After the Pahalgam incident, I don’t see Pakistan participating in the Asia Cup 2025. I don’t think they will be included in the tournament,” he stated, echoing sentiments often associated with hardline voices in India.
Commenting on the evolving diplomatic standoff, Gavaskar said the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) usually aligns with the Indian government’s stance. “Given the current situation, I don’t believe things will be any different for the Asia Cup,” he added.
He further remarked that, despite India and Sri Lanka being named co-hosts, Pakistan’s presence in the tournament remains unlikely if tensions persist. “If the situation does not improve, I cannot see Pakistan being part of the Asia Cup,” he said.
Pushing the envelope further, Gavaskar speculated about a possible dissolution of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and proposed alternative formats involving other Asian teams such as Hong Kong or the United Arab Emirates. “I don’t know exactly what will happen or how this will end,” he concluded, “but everything depends on the next two months and how relations between the two countries develop.”
As of now, the Asian Cricket Council has not released a finalized schedule or confirmed venues for the tournament. While the Asia Cup 2025 is expected to follow a hybrid hosting model—similar to that of the Champions Trophy and the Women’s World Cup—Pakistan’s national team is not slated to tour India.
The ongoing diplomatic friction, exacerbated by remarks from former cricketers and public figures, continues to cast uncertainty over the tournament’s future and regional cricketing ties.
