India still uncertain for Asia Cup
India's participation in the upcoming Asia Cup remains unresolved but the inclusion of both India and Pakistan in the same group for the Women's World Cup has raised hopes within the Asian Cricket Council (ACC).
Although the Asia Cup is scheduled for this year, tensions between Pakistan and India have cast doubt over the event. In the 2023 edition, matches involving India were held in Sri Lanka under a hybrid model.
Now, both nations have again agreed not to play on each other's home soil and instead opt for a neutral venue, a practice that began with this year's Champions Trophy.
While this year's edition of the Asia Cup is set to be hosted by India, it is expected to be played in the UAE from September 12 to 28. However, India has yet to confirm its participation to the ACC.
Last year, Sony Pictures Network India secured media rights for all ACC tournaments from 2024 to 2031 in a deal worth $170 million. This includes all editions of the Men's and Women's Asia Cup, the U-19 Asia Cups, and Emerging tournaments.
Rumors of a potential Indian boycott of the tournament had surfaced recently but were dismissed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Still, in the latest Asia Cup promo released by Sony, only the captains of India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh were featured — Pakistan's captain was noticeably absent.
Sources say that the ICC recently grouped Pakistan and India together in the Women's World Cup, and there was no opposition to this move. This has strengthened the perception that India is likely to participate in the Asia Cup as well.
However, if India decides to forfeit a match against Pakistan, the PCB could reciprocate in future events. Such a scenario would be complex, as replacing the Indian team in the tournament is not seen as viable due to broadcasting and financial implications.
It's worth noting that the current ACC Chairman is PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi. Also, the Women's Emerging Asia Cup, which was set to begin in Sri Lanka on June 6, was postponed due to weather concerns.
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