Asia Cup 2026: India Joins, Indo-Pak Bilateral Halted
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| Asia Cup Participation Confirmed for India; Pakistan Series Still Off |
“India's approach to sports events involving Pakistan reflects our broader policy towards the country,” said the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs in a statement on August 20. “Indian teams will not participate in bilateral events in Pakistan, nor will we allow Pakistani teams in India. However, in multilateral international events, in India or abroad, we follow the practices of international sports bodies while protecting the interests of our athletes.”
Calls for a boycott of Pakistan intensified after the BCCI announced the 15-man Indian squad for the Asia Cup. The debate reignited memories of the Legends tournament in England earlier this summer, where the India Champions pulled out of matches against the Pakistan Champions, prompting sponsors like EaseMyTrip to withdraw support.
By clearly separating bilateral from multilateral competitions, India has ensured that its teams can continue to compete in ICC and ACC events alongside Pakistan. This approach also guarantees that Pakistani teams can participate in multilateral events hosted in India. To further support international sports, the government has simplified visa procedures for players, officials, and governing body representatives, including multi-entry visas for office-bearers valid for up to five years.
“This policy reinforces India’s emergence as a credible destination for hosting global sporting events,” the ministry added. “Indian teams will compete in international tournaments featuring Pakistan, and Pakistani players and teams will likewise be welcomed in multilateral events held in India.”
With this decision, the government has addressed uncertainties surrounding the Asia Cup, scheduled from September 9 to 28 in the UAE, confirming India’s participation even in matches against Pakistan.
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