Controversy at India’s Asia Cup squad reveal PC as BCCI blocks reporter’s Pakistan question

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday, August 19, announced the squad for the Asia Cup 2025, with Suryakumar Yadav as captain. During the press conference, questions about the upcoming match against Pakistan were blocked, and Suryakumar Yadav denied answering about the match.

India have been placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, UAE, and Hong Kong for the Asia Cup 2025. The Men in Blue will face Pakistan in their second group match on September 14 in Dubai. Notably, this would be the first clash between the two teams since the Pahalgam terror attack, but its status remains uncertain.

BCCI Facing Backlash Over Agreeing to Play Pakistan in Asia Cup 2025

The BCCI has been facing backlash over agreeing to play Pakistan, especially after the recent terror attack in Pahalgam. Following the incident, many expected India to withdraw from the event or refuse to host it, but the BCCI decided to play at a neutral venue.

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Former cricketers such as Harbhajan Singh and Kedar Jadhav openly urged the board to avoid fixtures against Pakistan. Harbhajan backed a boycott during the World Championship of Legends when India refused to face Pakistan.

“I don’t think the Indian team should play. I also believe India won’t play. Wherever India face them (Pakistan), they will win anyway. But this match should definitely not go ahead. I can say with confidence that it won’t happen,” Jadhav told ANI.

However, the government has allowed sporting ties to continue. The Asia Cup 2025 is set to feature India-Pakistan encounters, which has led to the displeasure of many fans.

BCCI Blocks Pakistan Question at Press Conference

At the Asia Cup 2025 squad announcement in Mumbai, questions about India facing Pakistan became a point of discussion. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar was cut off midway by a BCCI representative when asked about the matter.

Later, a similar question directed at Suryakumar Yadav was also blocked, with the media manager insisting that the press conference would focus only on squad selection.

These repeated interventions have fueled speculation about the board’s reluctance to address the India-Pakistan clash, especially amid recent tensions. Notably, the BCCI’s refusal to discuss the topic publicly has raised fresh questions about its stance.

Ajit Agarkar, Suryakumar Yadav Announce India's Asia Cup Squad

India and Pakistan may meet more than once in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025. The Men in Blue could lock horns with Pakistan in the Super 4 phase on September 21 and the final if both qualify.

The Indian selectors, led by Ajit Agarkar, unveiled a 15-member squad for the competition. Suryakumar Yadav will captain the side, while Shubman Gill makes a return as vice-captain.

Jasprit Bumrah has also been recalled after confirming his availability, providing India with a major boost in the pace department. Players like Sanju Samson, Tilak Varma, and Axar Patel also retained their place in the squad.

However, some notable omissions grabbed the attention. Shreyas Iyer, Prasidh Krishna, and Washington Sundar failed to make the cut, while Yashasvi Jaiswal was only named among the standbys.

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