The growing diplomatic strain between India and Pakistan has cast a long shadow over the cricketing calendar in the subcontinent. Following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 28 lives, bilateral cricket ties are once again under serious scrutiny. The tensions are not just affecting India-Pakistan relations but also involving Bangladesh, potentially disrupting multiple international fixtures.
INDIA'S TOUR OF BANGLADESH IN DOUBT
The Indian cricket team was scheduled to tour Bangladesh in August 2025 for a white-ball series comprising three ODIs and three T20Is. However, the deteriorating diplomatic environment and inflammatory statements from certain quarters in Bangladesh have thrown the tour into uncertainty. According to sources close to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the situation is being closely monitored, and the series may be postponed or cancelled depending on further developments.
ASIA CUP 2025 UNDER THREAT
The Asia Cup 2025, originally expected to be held in September at a neutral venue, is now in jeopardy. While the host country for the tournament has yet to be finalized, the strained political climate between India and Pakistan poses a serious risk to the event’s viability. Sources cited by the Times of India indicate that discussions are ongoing, but the current timing may not be conducive to hosting a multinational tournament involving both nations.
In the previous edition held in 2023, a hybrid model was employed, with matches shared between Sri Lanka and Pakistan. India, however, played all of their games in Sri Lanka, eventually going on to win the title. Given the success of that format, a similar approach was being considered for 2025—until the recent events disrupted planning.
INDIA-PAKISTAN RIVALRY IN GLOBAL
TOURNAMENTS ALSO UNDER QUESTION
Historically, India and Pakistan have only faced off in ICC and ACC events due to their tense diplomatic relations. However, following the recent attack in Kashmir, there are renewed calls within India to avoid even these encounters. BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla recently stated that the board may formally request the International Cricket Council (ICC) not to place India and Pakistan in the same group in upcoming tournaments.
If accepted, such a move could have major financial repercussions. India-Pakistan matches are among the most-watched in world cricket, reportedly generating over Rs 10,000 crore (approximately \$1.3 billion) in the past 20 years, according to a FICCI report. These encounters are a major draw for advertisers, with 10-second ad slots during these games commanding premium rates.
ONGOING CRICKET COMMITMENTS
While political tensions rise, players from both countries remain engaged in domestic franchise leagues. Pakistani cricketers are currently playing in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025, while Indian stars are active in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025.
Post-IPL, Team India is set to travel to England for a five-match Test series, beginning June 20 in Birmingham. Meanwhile, Pakistan is scheduled to host Bangladesh for a five-match T20I series starting May 25.
The most recent India-Pakistan clash took place during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, hosted in Dubai. Whether fans will witness another high-voltage encounter between these cricketing giants anytime soon remains highly uncertain.
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