Devajit Saikia Clarifies BCCI Has Not Discussed Asia Cup Participation Amid Speculation

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia has dismissed the rumours that India will not take part in the upcoming Women’s Emerging Teams Asia Cup and the Men’s Asia Cup 2025. He clearly stated that there is no truth to reports claiming that India has decided to skip the tournaments or not host the Men’s Asia Cup, which is set to be held in September this year.

BCCI Denies Reports of Withdrawing from Women's Emerging Teams Asia Cup

Some reports had claimed that the Women’s Emerging Teams Asia Cup, which was supposed to happen next month in Sri Lanka, has been cancelled. But Devajit Saikia has denied these claims, saying there's no truth to them. He also mentioned that the BCCI hasn’t had any talks yet with the ACC (Asian Cricket Council) about upcoming events.

"Since this morning, it has come to our notice about some news items about BCCI's decision not to participate in the Asia Cup and Women's Emerging Teams Asia Cup, both ACC events. Such news is devoid of any truth as till now, the BCCI has not even discussed or taken any such steps regarding the ensuing ACC events, leave alone writing anything to the ACC," BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia told PTI.

BCCI Prioritises IPL 2025 and England Tour, Asia Cup Discussions Yet to Begin

Saikia also mentioned that, at the moment, their main focus is on IPL 2025 and the upcoming tour of England. He added that they will share any updates with the media once a decision is made regarding the upcoming ACC events.

"At this stage, our prime focus is on the ongoing IPL and the subsequent England series, both men and women. The Asia Cup matter or any other ACC event issue has not come up for discussion at any level, hence any news or report on that is purely speculative and imaginary. It may be said that the BCCI, as and when any discussion on any ACC event takes place and any important decision is reached, the same will be announced through the media," he added.

Sources have told India Today that India will not take part in either of the two events due to the growing tensions with Pakistan. Without India, there’s a strong chance that the tournament might be cancelled altogether. Since the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) is currently headed by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi, India’s withdrawal could lead to major financial losses for the organisers.

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