The BCCI has chosen to distance itself from the upcoming Asia Cup clash against Pakistan amid rising boycott calls.
India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2025: Boycott Calls Overshadow Historic Rivalry
India versus Pakistan is one of the most-anticipated cricket matches globally, usually drawing massive crowds and generating intense buzz wherever it is played. However, the Asia Cup 2025 clash carries a different atmosphere, with growing boycott calls in India as fans express displeasure over the BCCI’s decision to proceed with the match despite national sentiment following the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor.
Since the schedule was announced, social media has seen a surge of criticism directed at the BCCI for agreeing to play Pakistan. Earlier this year, 26 people were killed in the Pahalgam attack, prompting India to launch Operation Sindoor targeting terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Many expected the BCCI to take a hard stance and refuse to participate even in multi-lateral events. However, a central government policy allowed India to compete against Pakistan in multinational tournaments.
Amid the boycott campaign, the BCCI appears to be acknowledging public sentiment. According to a report in Dainik Jagran, most senior officials have opted to distance themselves from the Group A match, resulting in what is being called an “invisible” boycott. Unlike the Champions Trophy clash earlier this year in Dubai, when top officials were present, no senior BCCI representatives have reached Dubai for the Asia Cup clash.
Rajeev Shukla may attend the match
According to a report by Dainik Jagran, several senior BCCI officials—including secretary Devajit Saikia, IPL chairman Arun Dhumal, treasurer Prabhtej Bhatia, and joint secretary Rohan Desai—are unlikely to attend the India-Pakistan Group A match in Dubai on Sunday, September 14.
The report noted that BCCI officials would only make public appearances after India secures a victory. “We agreed to the match after getting permission from the government. If we come on camera during the match, then attempts would be made to create an atmosphere against us,” a BCCI official told Dainik Jagran.
Both India and Pakistan won their opening matches in the Asia Cup 2025, setting the stage for a high-stakes clash. Fans and cricket analysts will be watching closely to see how the two teams conduct themselves on the field and whether any pleasantries are exchanged amid the tense pre-match atmosphere.
