PCB’s Unexpected Step Amid India-Pakistan Tensions Sparks Asia Cup Uncertainty

With the 2025 Asia Cup scheduled for September, escalating tensions between India and Pakistan have cast serious doubts on the tournament’s feasibility. Although neither the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), nor the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially announced a delay, sources suggest the event could be postponed.

The ongoing border conflict has also affected the anticipation around the potential India-Pakistan clash in the T20 World Cup 2026, with fears that such high-profile fixtures may not materialise under current circumstances. While the BCCI might remain unaffected due to India’s diplomatic stance, the PCB and even the ICC could suffer major setbacks.

PCB’s Backup Plan: UAE-Based Tri-Series in the Works

Determined to stay prepared, the PCB has proposed hosting a tri-series with Afghanistan and the UAE ahead of the Asia Cup. According to tribune.com.pk, the PCB wants this series to help players adapt to the UAE conditions, especially if the Asia Cup is eventually shifted to a neutral venue like the UAE.

Afghanistan is already scheduled to tour Pakistan in August. However, PCB officials believe holding a tri-nation series in the UAE involving both Afghanistan and the UAE would be a strategic move, allowing players to get acclimatised ahead of a possible venue change.

Hybrid Model or Neutral Venue Likely for Asia Cup

India is technically the host for the 2025 Asia Cup, but due to geopolitical tensions, Pakistan is unlikely to tour the country. As a result, organisers are considering a hybrid model or moving the tournament to a neutral venue altogether — with the UAE emerging as a top contender.

Ongoing discussions between the cricket boards are expected to yield a formal announcement soon. The PCB, meanwhile, is in active talks with both the Afghanistan Cricket Board and Emirates Cricket Board to finalise tri-series arrangements.

Fans Divided Over PCB’s Move

Not everyone is happy with PCB’s tri-series idea. Some fans have criticised the inclusion of UAE, demanding more competitive teams like Sri Lanka or Bangladesh instead. They argue that a Pakistan-Afghanistan series in Pakistan would draw huge crowds and shouldn’t be moved to the UAE without necessity.

Still, PCB appears ready to risk fan backlash to prioritise preparedness, especially if the Asia Cup is held outside Pakistan. However, if the tournament is ultimately postponed, this entire effort may face strong criticism from the home base.

As uncertainties cloud the cricketing calendar in South Asia, all eyes remain on the ACC and ICC for the next official word. Until then, the PCB is choosing to prepare rather than wait.