Crisis over India-Pakistan match in Asia Cup ends

Sports Desk

The Indian government has drawn a strong distinction between bilateral and global cricketing ties with Pakistan. It has made it clear that despite growing calls for a boycott and withdrawal, the national team will participate in the upcoming Asia Cup. However, there will be no bilateral sporting events with Pakistan, which have been suspended for many years. This has removed any doubts about the India-Pakistan Asia Cup match.

“India’s approach towards sporting events involving Pakistan is a reflection of its overall policy with the country,” India’s Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs said in a statement on Thursday (August 20).

“Indian teams will not compete in Pakistan in bilateral sporting events in each other’s countries. We will also not allow Pakistani teams to play in India. However, in international and multilateral events, whether in India or abroad, we are guided by the practices of international sporting bodies and the interests of our own athletes.”

The demand for a ‘boycott of Pakistan and Asia Cup’ intensified after the BCCI announced the 15-member Indian squad on Tuesday. The controversy had started when the India Champions team pulled out of the group stage match and semi-final against the Pakistan Champions in the Legends tournament held in England in the summer. Sponsors like EasyMyTrip also withdrew their support.

By drawing a clear line between bilateral and multilateral events, the ministry has paved the way for Indian teams to compete against Pakistan in global tournaments including the ICC and ACC. It ensures that when India hosts such multilateral events, Pakistani teams will also be able to participate. There are even plans to ease the visa process for players and match officials, with a view to furthering India’s bid to host the Olympics.

The statement further said, “To establish India as a preferred destination for hosting international sports events, visa procedures will be simplified for athletes, team officials, technical staff and officials of international sports governing bodies.” “In the case of officials of international sports governing bodies, multiple-entry visas will be issued on priority basis for the duration of their official tenure (up to a maximum of five years).”

The government’s stance has removed the uncertainty surrounding India’s match against Pakistan in the Asia Cup and the eight-nation continental championship to be held in the United Arab Emirates from September 9 to 28. India and Pakistan will face each other in the Asia Cup match in Dubai on September 14.