Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has called for the relocation of the Asia Cup 2025 from India, following India’s recent award of the hosting rights for the tournament.
In a video on his YouTube channel, Ali criticized Jay Shah, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary, accusing him of intentionally complicating Pakistan’s involvement in future cricket events. Ali suggested that Pakistan might refuse to travel to India for the Asia Cup if the BCCI does not agree to send its team to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025.
Also Read: India to Host 2025 Asia Cup in T20 Format
Ali claimed that Shah’s decision to award the Asia Cup to India was a strategic move to promote a hybrid model for both events. He argued that Shah was using this situation to create leverage, possibly influencing the format of the Champions Trophy.
He expressed frustration with the idea of a hybrid model, which would involve both countries sharing hosting responsibilities. Ali emphasized that Pakistan should not accept such an arrangement and suggested that the Asia Cup could be moved to another country as a result.
Ali also praised Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chief Mohsin Naqvi, comparing him favorably to Shah and commending his strategic acumen. He implied that if the Asia Cup is held in India, it would be necessary for India to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy.
As Pakistan prepares to host its first major tournament since the 2008 Asia Cup, the challenge of navigating bilateral relations and ensuring the successful hosting of these events remains a significant concern for the PCB.
