ACC Agrees to Keep Politics Out of Cricket

The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has wrapped up its annual meeting in Dhaka, with several key developments aimed at expanding the sport across the continent. The meeting, chaired by ACC President and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, was attended by representatives from all 25 member countries, some joining virtually.

Cricket to Feature in 2026 Asian Games
One of the major announcements was the inclusion of cricket in the 2026 Asian Games. Ten men’s teams and eight women’s teams will participate, with qualification based on ICC rankings, according to the ACC’s newly approved event calendar for 2025 and 2026.

The council also approved its audited budget during the session.

ACC Welcomes New Members
In a move to broaden cricket’s reach in Asia, the ACC granted full membership to Mongolia, the Philippines, and Uzbekistan. This expansion underscores the council’s commitment to developing the sport in emerging cricket nations.

Asia Cup 2025: Schedule Still Under Discussion
Speaking to reporters in Dhaka, Naqvi said discussions are ongoing with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding the Asia Cup 2025 schedule. He indicated that the tournament may be expanded from six to eight teams.

"Talks are being held with the Indian board regarding the schedule. We are hopeful the Asia Cup dates will be finalized soon," Naqvi said.

Sources confirmed that BCCI Vice President Rajiv Shukla joined the meeting virtually, signaling a willingness to cooperate despite broader political tensions between the two countries.

Politics and Cricket Should Not Mix
Naqvi emphasized that the ACC meeting was conducted in a “very good atmosphere” and noted that all member countries agreed to keep political matters separate from cricket.

“The spirit of teamwork and shared vision was clearly visible. We all agreed to work together to promote cricket across Asia,” he said, expressing gratitude to the Bangladesh Cricket Board for hosting the event and acknowledging those who participated virtually.

Representatives from Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, UAE, Singapore, Cambodia, Oman, Afghanistan, Thailand, and Uzbekistan were among those in attendance.

Pakistan-India Clash: Still Awaiting Confirmation
While the final Asia Cup schedule has yet to be announced, Naqvi assured fans that an official update will be released soon. Regarding the highly anticipated Pakistan-India match, he urged fans to remain patient, hinting that progress is being made in discussions with the BCCI.