In light of this, Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president and current PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has formally reached out to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), seeking clarity over India’s confirmation, amid mounting concerns from broadcasters and sponsors.
According to a Times Now report, the ACC has raised concerns that the ongoing uncertainty is affecting their media and commercial partners’ ability to plan and execute campaigns. The ACC’s letter to the BCCI highlighted how partners are struggling to allocate resources and finalize promotions due to the lack of official confirmation.
“In the absence of clear information, their ability to plan effectively, allocate resources, and execute their campaigns is significantly constrained,” the ACC stated in the letter, referencing its media rights partner and main sponsor TCM.
Potential Breach of Agreements if Delays Continue
The ACC also warned that any further delay could risk breaching contractual obligations. Both Sony (broadcast rights partner) and TCM (sponsorship partner) have expressed concern that if the fixtures aren’t finalized soon, it may lead to missed commercial windows—especially with several ICC and international events scheduled around the same time.
“Given the proximity of other major ICC and international events, both Sony and TCM have raised concerns that further delays could lead to missed commercial opportunities,” the ACC wrote.
“This is especially critical as the Men’s Asia Cup is the ACC’s primary source of revenue. Any prolonged delay might trigger breach-of-agreement claims or demands for discounts.”
The ACC has urged BCCI to confirm India’s participation and help finalize the schedule within the week.
BCCI Response Expected Soon
A response from the BCCI is reportedly expected early next week. While a TV promo for the Asia Cup was aired during the India vs England Test broadcast, it did not reveal any dates or venues—adding to the speculation.
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Originally scheduled to be hosted in India, the 2025 Asia Cup is now expected to be moved to the UAE following escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly after the terrorist attack in Pahalgam and India’s subsequent Operation Sindoor.
As per The Times of India, the tournament is likely to begin on September 5, with the high-stakes India vs Pakistan clash scheduled for September 7. If both teams make the Super Four, they could meet again on September 14, and potentially in the final on September 21. The format will remain the same as the 2022 and 2023 editions, featuring six teams in a T20 format.
With commercial pressure mounting and time ticking, all eyes are now on the BCCI’s next move.