‘No more begging’ for India-Pakistan cricketing negotiations” - PCB Chairman, Mohsin Naqvi

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has made it clear that “there will be no more begging for negotiations” with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding a possible bilateral series between Pakistan and India in the near future. Both teams are in Group A of the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, alongside Oman and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). On September 14, the two arch-rivals will go head-to-head.

When asked during a press conference in Lahore whether there is any chance of the two teams facing each other in a bilateral series, the PCB Chairman replied: "I think we are very clear that whenever talks are held will be on an equal footing with India and there will be no more begging for negotiations. That time has passed and whatever will happen will be on the basis of equality."

In recent times, political tensions between the two nations have escalated, particularly after the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025. Because of this, fans remain divided on the decision for India to play Pakistan in the Asia Cup. Notably, the two sides could face each other more than once in the tournament, with the possibility of meeting up to three times depending on results.

A few days ago, the Indian Sports Ministry released a clear statement affirming India’s participation against Pakistan in international and multilateral tournaments, including the Asia Cup. The ministry also confirmed that Pakistani teams and players will be allowed to compete in multilateral events hosted by India.

“With regard to international and multilateral events, in India or abroad, we are guided by the practices of international sports bodies and the interest of our own sportspersons. It is also relevant to take into account India’s emergence as a credible venue to host international sports events,” the statement read.

“Accordingly, Indian teams and individual players will take part in international events that also have teams or players from Pakistan. Similarly, Pakistani players and teams will be able to participate in such multilateral events hosted by India,” it added.

The ministry further emphasised India’s goal of becoming a preferred global venue: “To position India as a preferred destination for hosting international sporting events, the visa process for sportspersons, team officials, technical personnel, and office-bearers of International Sports Governing Bodies shall be simplified.”

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