Can’t See Pakistan Being Part of Asia Cup After J&K Attack: Say Sunil Gavaskar
Cricket icon Sunil Gavaskar has suggested that the ongoing political and security tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack could lead to Pakistan’s exclusion from the upcoming Asia Cup and possibly the dissolution of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC).
Speaking to Sports Today, Gavaskar emphasized that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), as a co-host of the Asia Cup along with Sri Lanka, would adhere to the Indian government’s directives regarding Pakistan’s participation. Given the current strained ties, he said it’s increasingly likely that Pakistan may be dropped from the tournament altogether.
“The BCCI always follows the Indian government’s lead. If the situation doesn’t improve, I don’t see Pakistan taking part in the Asia Cup hosted by India and Sri Lanka,” Gavaskar noted.
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He also floated the possibility of the ACC being dissolved if diplomatic and security conditions remain unchanged. “There might be no ACC going forward. Instead, we could see a three- or four-nation tournament, perhaps with teams like Hong Kong or the UAE stepping in,” he added.
Earlier this year, India opted out of visiting Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, playing all its matches in Dubai, including the victorious final against New Zealand.
If India does withdraw from the ACC, Gavaskar said the BCCI could organize a separate multi-nation event. “India could host a four- or five-team tournament including nations like Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan, potentially outside the ACC framework,” he said.
He concluded by underlining the challenges of continuing sporting ties amid geopolitical hostilities. “If two countries are in conflict, it’s tough to maintain sports relations. I wouldn’t be surprised if the ACC is disbanded in such circumstances,” Gavaskar remarked.