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India’s New Cricket Policy: No Bilateral Games with Pakistan, But Green Light for Asia Cup & World Cups
The Indian government has made a big decision on playing Pakistan in cricket. Here’s what it means for the Asia Cup and future tournaments.
If you’ve been following the heated debate on social media about whether India should boycott Pakistan in cricket, we finally have a clear answer from the top.
The Government of India has officially stepped in and drawn a firm line. The rule is simple:
No bilateral cricket with Pakistan (meaning no direct India-Pakistan series in either country).
Yes to multilateral cricket (meaning India will play Pakistan in tournaments like the Asia Cup, ICC World Cup, and Champions Trophy).
This big decision was announced by the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs in a statement. It effectively ends the uncertainty and puts all the speculation to rest.
What Does This Policy Mean?
In simple terms, the government is making a distinction based on where the match is happening.
1. No Home or Away Bilateral Tours: You will not see Team India touring Pakistan for a test series, and you will not see the Pakistani cricket team playing a bilateral series in India. That door remains firmly closed.
2. Yes to ICC & ACC Events: Team India will 100% participate in global tournaments like the upcoming Asia Cup in the UAE, even if it means facing Pakistan. This is done by following the rules of international bodies like the ICC and ACC, and most importantly, to protect the interests of Indian athletes who shouldn’t miss out on world events.
This policy explains why the Indian team pulled out of a bilateral Legends tournament in England earlier this year but will now play in the Asia Cup.
What About Pakistan Playing in India?
The government has also clarified this. When India hosts a multilateral event - like a future World Cup or even the Olympics - Pakistani athletes and teams will be allowed to participate. This is huge news, especially as India is pushing to host the Olympics in the future.
New Easy Visa Rules for Sports
To make India a global hub for sports, the government also announced a simplified visa process for international players, officials, and technical staff. Key points include:
- Easier and faster visas for players and officials.
- Top officials of global sports bodies can get a multi-entry visa for up to 5 years.
This is a smart move to make India a more attractive and friendly destination for hosting major sporting events.
Clash Beyond Politics
The government's stand is a balanced one. It takes a strong political position by cutting off all direct sporting ties with Pakistan on a bilateral level. However, it also shows pragmatism by not isolating Indian sports and sportspeople from the global stage.
So, get ready! The high-voltage India-Pakistan clash at the Asia Cup 2025 is officially on. The political debate might continue, but the cricketing one will now be settled on the field.
What do you think about this policy? Is it the right balance? Let us know in the comments below!
#IndiaPakistanCricket #AsiaCup #BCCI
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