The central government has issued a clarification regarding India-Pakistan cricket fixtures, confirming that India will not engage in bilateral series with Pakistan. The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports released a report stating that while bilateral matches are off the table, India has no objections to facing Pakistan in international multi-nation tournaments such as the Asia Cup or the ICC World Cup. This decision follows heightened tensions after the Pahalgam attack, and neutral venues will be used for such encounters.
The 17th edition of the Asia Cup will take place in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from September 9 to September 28, with matches in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The tournament, conducted in the T20 format, serves as preparation for next year’s T20 World Cup. Eight teams are participating, divided into two groups: Group A – India, Pakistan, UAE, Oman; Group B – Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Hong Kong.
India’s schedule features key clashes including India vs UAE on September 10 in Dubai, India vs Pakistan on September 14 in Dubai, and India vs Oman on September 19 in Abu Dhabi. The top two teams from each group will progress to the Super 4 stage, where they will face the remaining three teams. The two best teams from the Super 4 stage will meet in the final on September 28 in Dubai. Matches will start at 7:30 PM IST. The Indian squad includes Suryakumar Yadav (Captain), Shubman Gill (Vice-Captain), Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Rinku Singh, and other key players.