Some Indian media outlets have recently claimed that India will not participate in the upcoming Asia Cup and the Women’s Emerging Asia Cup, suggesting that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially informed the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) of its withdrawal from both tournaments. However, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia has strongly denied these reports.
In a statement, Saikia clarified:
“Since this morning, we’ve come across several media reports stating that BCCI has decided not to participate in the Men’s Asia Cup and the Women’s Emerging Asia Cup. These reports are completely false. The BCCI has not held any discussions regarding withdrawal, nor has it made any decisions about these tournaments.”
He further explained that the BCCI’s current focus is on the Indian Premier League (IPL) and preparations for the upcoming tours to England for both the men’s and women’s teams.
This year’s Men’s Asia Cup is scheduled to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. However, growing tensions between India and Pakistan—particularly following accusations of cross-border attacks and India’s retaliatory Operation Sidura—have raised concerns about whether the tournament will proceed as planned.
There have also been strong calls from within India to sever all cricketing ties with Pakistan. Former World Cup-winning cricketer and current head coach of the Indian national team, Gautam Gambhir, has voiced opposition to playing matches against Pakistan. Cricketing legend Sunil Gavaskar has echoed similar sentiments, urging Indian teams to avoid facing Pakistan even in ICC and ACC events.
Saikia emphasized that if the BCCI makes any decision regarding the Asia Cup, it will be officially announced:
“As of now, the BCCI is not considering any action concerning the ACC tournaments. If a decision is made in the future, it will be communicated formally.”
This statement puts to rest the current wave of speculation and reaffirms that no official decision has been taken regarding India’s participation in either tournament.
