Asia Cup 2025: Why the India-Pakistan Clash on September 14 Cannot Be Cancelled

The much-anticipated India vs Pakistan match in the Asia Cup 2025, scheduled for September 14, has sparked widespread debate. The backdrop: a terrorist attack in Pahalgam recently linked to Pakistan, followed by a strong retaliatory strike from the Indian Air Force, dubbed Operation Sindoor. As emotions run high, many Indian fans have urged the BCCI to cancel the match.

But as of now, two major reasons are making it nearly impossible to cancel the India-Pakistan match.

1. It’s a Multinational Tournament, Not a Bilateral Series

According to NDTV, sources close to the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) have clarified that the Asia Cup is a multi-nation event, not a bilateral series between India and Pakistan. Therefore:

• India cannot unilaterally pull out of a single match.

• If India skips the game, Pakistan will receive a walkover, which could unfairly affect the tournament standings.

• Since ACC (not ICC) governs the Asia Cup, the rules are strictly enforced.

This framework makes cancelling a specific match within the tournament practically and politically difficult.

2. Massive Financial Stakes and Broadcasting Rights

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chief Mohsin Naqvi is currently the Chairman of the ACC. Under his leadership:

• The broadcasting rights of the Asia Cup were sold to Sony Network for $170 million (approx ₹1,475 crore) for 8 years.

• The India-Pakistan clash is the biggest revenue generator, attracting millions of viewers worldwide.

• Cancelling this match would result in major financial losses—not just for the broadcaster, but for all 24 ACC member nations.

Sony Network, which stands to benefit hugely from viewership and ad revenue, would also face contractual and commercial disruptions.

Recent Precedent: When an India-Pakistan Match Was Cancelled

Notably, a similar situation occurred recently in the World Championship of Legends. The India Champions refused to play Pakistan, and the match was cancelled. But this led to severe financial losses for the event organizers, highlighting the real-world implications of such decisions.

India’s Asia Cup 2025 Schedule

• September 10: India vs UAE

• September 14: India vs Pakistan

• September 19: India vs Oman

• September 28: Final

India is grouped with Pakistan, UAE, and Oman in Group A. With high expectations, the Indian squad is gearing up for a crucial campaign, and the September 14 encounter remains the centerpiece of the tournament.