“We Will Not…”: Indian Govt’s Final Word on India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 Match
India clarifies stance on Pakistan ties: no bilateral sports events, but Indian cricket team will play Asia Cup 2025 clash as it’s a multilateral tournament.
The Sports Ministry has clarified India’s stance on sporting ties with Pakistan, confirming that while bilateral engagements remain off the table, Indian teams will not be stopped from participating in multilateral tournaments such as the Asia Cup.
According to ministry sources, the new policy is effective immediately and aligns with India’s broader diplomatic approach towards Pakistan.
“India’s approach to sports events involving Pakistan reflects its overall policy in dealing with that country,” the ministry said.
The policy makes two key points. First, Team India will not travel to Pakistan for bilateral events, nor will Pakistan be invited to play such series in India.
Second, multilateral events governed by international bodies, such as the Asia Cup or the Olympics, will continue without restriction.
“We will not stop the Indian cricket team from playing in the Asia Cup as it is multilateral,” a ministry source confirmed.
When asked about the possibility of Indian teams traveling to Pakistan for multilateral tournaments, officials said the government will take a case-by-case approach before granting approval.
The statement comes amid growing debate over India’s participation in the Asia Cup 2025, where they are scheduled to face Pakistan on September 14 in Dubai. The clash had sparked calls for a boycott following the Pahalgam terror attack earlier this year.
For now, the government’s stance ensures the much-anticipated encounter will go ahead as planned under the multilateral umbrella.
