Mumbai: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has categorically denied reports suggesting India's withdrawal from the upcoming Men’s Asia Cup and the Women’s Emerging Teams Asia Cup in the wake of the India-Pakistan tensions. The board dismissed the claims, labelling them as entirely baseless.
Several media outlets had earlier reported that the BCCI had informed the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) of its decision to opt out of the two major continental tournaments. The Women’s Emerging Teams Asia Cup is scheduled to be held in Sri Lanka next month, while India is set to host the Men’s Asia Cup in September.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saika clarified the situation, stating that no such withdrawal has even been discussed within the board. "Since this morning, we have seen news reports claiming the BCCI has decided not to participate in the Asia Cup and the Women’s Emerging Teams Asia Cup. These reports are completely false. No such discussions have taken place within the BCCI, nor has any communication been made to the ACC," Saika was quoted as saying.
He further emphasized that the board’s current focus remains on the ongoing Indian Premier League and the upcoming bilateral series against England for both men and women.
The speculation arose in the backdrop of rising tensions between India and Pakistan following the recent Pahalgam terror incident, prompting concerns over the feasibility of hosting or participating in ACC events involving both nations.
