Karachi: The fate of the Asia Cup cricket tournament—scheduled for September—hangs in the balance as a crucial meeting of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) is set to take place on Thursday. However, India is reportedly creating major obstacles, not only pushing for the postponement of the tournament but also aiming to inflict financial damage on the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
According to sources, the PCB was expecting to earn approximately PKR 1.16 billion from hosting the Asia Cup. Should the event be cancelled, Pakistan could suffer financial losses exceeding PKR 1.25 billion.
India’s Pressure Campaign and Regional Dynamics
India is not only opposing the upcoming meeting in Dhaka but is also allegedly influencing cricket boards of Sri Lanka and Afghanistan to join its anti-Pakistan lobby. Reports suggest the Afghanistan Cricket Board has already assured support to India, while Sri Lanka appears to be aligned as well.
As per ACC’s constitution, a quorum requires the participation of at least three Test-playing nations and ten full or associate members. However, the situation remains uncertain, with India neither attending in person nor planning to join via video link.
Targeting Mohsin Naqvi?
Sources claim that India is also attempting to target ACC Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, aiming to discredit his leadership. Naqvi, who recently visited Kabul as Pakistan’s Interior Minister, was accused by Indian media of lobbying for Afghan support in favor of the Asia Cup.
Pakistani analysts believe that after setbacks on military fronts, India is now attempting to undermine Pakistan in the sporting arena. Just three days ago, in Birmingham, India refused to play Pakistan in a Legends Championship match, reflecting the heightened tensions.
PCB’s Stance
Responding to Indian media narratives, a PCB spokesperson said:
“We do not respond to Indian propaganda. Our focus is on promoting cricket and protecting our interests.“
Now, all eyes are on the Thursday meeting in Dhaka. If India’s strategy succeeds and the quorum fails to materialize, the future of Asia Cup 2024 will be in serious jeopardy—posing a setback not only for Pakistan but for cricket across the entire region.
