Asia Cup set to proceed in UAE as Pakistan bars teams from competing in India

WEB DESK: As preparations for the Asia Cup gather pace, with the tournament now expected to take place in the United Arab Emirates from September 10 to 28, Pakistan has formally barred its national teams from participating in any sporting events held in India, citing security concerns.

According to Indian media reports, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has resolved all outstanding issues regarding the Asia Cup, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) set to give final approval to the schedule. Matches are likely to be held in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with the official schedule expected to be announced within 48 hours.

Eight teams will take part in the T20-format event, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Hong Kong, Oman and the UAE, with a high-stakes Pakistan-India encounter anticipated, as both sides are expected to be placed in the same group.

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Meanwhile, Pakistan’s decision to restrict sporting engagement with India was formalised through a notification by the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) following a board meeting on July 23. It prohibits national sports federations from participating in events hosted by India without prior clearance.

“All federations are advised to consult the PSB before confirming participation in any sporting activity in India,” a PSB spokesperson said. No timeline has been given for the restriction.

The policy has already affected Pakistan’s participation in the upcoming Asia Hockey Cup, also scheduled in India, which the national team will now miss. The decision comes amid continued diplomatic and security tensions between the two neighbours.