The future of cricket matches between India and Pakistan remains uncertain following Operation Sindoor and tension between the two countries. While reports initially claimed that India had expressed its willingness to pull out of the Asia Cup, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia had categorically denied any such action. Now, the matter of the two countries facing each other at ICC events is set to be discussed at the ICC annual conference.
What happens to IND vs PAK matches?
As per news agency PTI, a BCCI source revealed that the chances of India not facing Pakistan in ICC knockouts was highly unlikely. However, the source said that the possibility of both teams not being drawn in the same group could be discussed. The annual conference is scheduled to take place in Singapore from July 17-20.
“The issue is bound to come up for discussion at the annual conference. While prospect of India and Pakistan not playing in ICC knockouts is unlikely, not drawing them in the same group, which has been the norm at ICC events, is a possibility,” a BCCI source said.
India last toured Pakistan in 2008 following which geopolitical tensions between the two countries has forced the former to boycott cricket in the latter. Since then, the two sides have only come face to face at ICC events. India and Pakistan have traditionally been drawn in the same group at the these events as the IND vs PAK tie is a most-watched one that not only excites the fans but drives huge revenue for the broadcasters and venue via ticket sales.
In February 2025, India categorically refused to travel to Pakistan for Champions Trophy. Instead, all their matches were at a neutral venue (Dubai), including the final of the tournament. In retaliation, Pakistan has refused to send its women’s cricket team to India for the World Cup scheduled to be held later this year.
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