BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia has dismissed reports claiming India’s withdrawal from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) tournaments to isolate Pakistan. He clarified that the BCCI has not discussed or decided on participation in the Asia Cup or Women’s Emerging Teams Asia Cup, emphasizing that such claims are speculative. Saikia stated that the board’s current focus remains on the ongoing IPL and the upcoming England series, reaffirming that any decisions regarding ACC events will be officially announced when necessary.
The Controversial Reports
India and Pakistan’s diplomatic tensions have frequently impacted cricket, with recent cross-border issues raising concerns over tournament participation. The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) oversees key events like the Men’s Asia Cup and the Women’s Emerging Teams Asia Cup, which play a crucial role in regional cricket development and attract significant viewership and sponsorship. However, ongoing political strains have cast uncertainty over these tournaments.
Several media outlets, citing anonymous insiders, claimed on May 18, 2025, that the BCCI had decided to pull out of all ACC tournaments to “isolate Pakistan.” These reports quickly gained traction across sports news platforms.
Allegedly, the decision stemmed from the ACC being chaired by Pakistan Cricket Board chief Mohsin Naqvi, who also serves as Pakistan’s Interior Minister—sparking a perceived conflict of interest amid heightened bilateral tensions.
Devajit Saikia’s Official Statement
In an exclusive statement to the Times of India on Monday, Devajit Saikia firmly denied any such decision: “Such news are devoid of any truth… the BCCI has not even discussed or taken any such steps regarding ensuing ACC events”
He emphasized that no communication had been sent to the ACC about withdrawal. Saikia’s statement clarifies BCCI’s position, focusing on IPL and England series commitments.
Saikia stated to TOI, “Since this morning, it has come to our notice about some news items about BCCI’s decision not to participate in the Asia Cup and Women’s Emerging Teams Asia Cup, both ACC’s events. Such news are devoid of any truth as till now, the BCCI has not even discussed or taken any such steps regarding ensuing ACC events, leave alone writing anything to the ACC.”
BCCI’s Current Focus
The Indian Premier League remains the marquee event of the Indian cricket calendar. Both the men’s and women’s teams are slated to visit England later this year, with bilateral series that carry significant ranking and preparatory value ahead of ICC events.
Saikia noted, “At this stage, our prime focus is on the ongoing IPL and subsequent England series, both men and women.”
Implications of Withdrawing from ACC Events
India hosting the Men’s Asia Cup in September 2025 is a huge draw. A no-show by India would diminish the tournament’s competitive edge and TV viewership, as the India-Pakistan fixture is traditionally the highlight. The Women’s Emerging Teams Asia Cup offers rising female cricketers exposure on a continental stage. India’s absence could discourage sponsors and lower media interest.
BCCI secretary added, “The Asia Cup matter or any other ACC event issue has not come up for discussion at any level, hence any news or report on that is purely speculative and imaginary. It may be said that the BCCI, as and when any discussion on any ACC events takes place and any important decision is reached, the same will be announced through the media.”
Broadcasting and Commercial Stakes
Sony Pictures Networks India secured rights for the Asia Cup for US$170 million over eight years starting 2023. India’s participation drives viewership, making their involvement critical for recouping this investment. Brands banking on high TRPs for India-Pakistan clashes would see reduced returns. Viewer disappointment could also dent overall tournament buzz.
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