India vs Pakistan is always one of the most-awaited cricket matches in the world. No matter the venue, these games usually see packed stadiums and huge excitement. But this year’s Asia Cup 2025 clash carries a very different atmosphere, as calls for a boycott are growing in India. Many fans are upset that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has agreed to play despite the recent Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor.
The tension began after the schedule was announced. Anger spread quickly on social media, with fans questioning why India should play Pakistan after the Pahalgam attack, which killed 26 people earlier this year. Following the attack, India launched Operation Sindoor against terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Many expected the BCCI to take a strong stand and avoid playing Pakistan, even in international tournaments.
However, the Indian government later clarified its stance: India would continue to play Pakistan in multi-nation events, though no bilateral series would be held. With this policy in place, the BCCI went ahead with preparations for the Asia Cup fixture.
Still, the rising public anger seems to have influenced the cricket board. According to a report in Dainik Jagran, most top BCCI officials have decided not to travel for the match, which is scheduled in Dubai today. This step is being seen as a form of “silent boycott.”
The report points out that unlike the India-Pakistan clash in Dubai during the Champions Trophy earlier this year, where senior BCCI members attended in full strength, this time, the top brass will stay away. Secretary Devajit Saikia, IPL chairman Arun Dhumal, treasurer Prabhtej Bhatia, and joint secretary Rohan Desai are all unlikely to be present.
Only Rajeev Shukla, the acting BCCI president and also a board member of the Asian Cricket Council, is expected at the venue since he has official duties. ICC chairman Jay Shah, meanwhile, is in the US and will miss the contest as well.
A BCCI official told Dainik Jagran that the board agreed to play only after the government’s clearance. But given the charged mood in the country, senior members prefer to keep a low profile. The official added that if they appear on camera during the game, it could spark public outrage. According to the report, some officials may only be seen after the match, especially if India wins.