In a development that could significantly reshape the cricketing landscape in Asia, On Monday, reports emerged that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly informed the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) of its intent to boycott upcoming ACC events, including the prestigious Men’s Asia Cup.
While no official confirmation has come from the Indian board, According to The Indian Express, the reported decision is closely tied to Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi’s concurrent role as Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman. However, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia has denied reports.
However if India does end up pulling out of Asia Cup 2025 due to political tension with Pakistan in future, it could have a severe financial impact on PCB.
How much money will PCB lose if India opts out of the Asia up?
According to Business Today report, the potential absence of India from Asia Cup fixtures could have dire financial implications for the PCB. India’s involvement in multinational tournaments has historically delivered massive revenue boosts, especially due to the enormous viewership for India-Pakistan encounters. Each India-Pakistan clash brings not only record-breaking TV ratings but also substantial advertising revenues.
For the PCB, India’s participation is critical. Current estimates suggest that India’s presence alone brings in ₹165–220 crore ($20–26 million) per tournament cycle for the PCB. The 2024–2032 Asia Cup broadcast rights were sold to Sony Pictures Networks India for a whopping $170 million a valuation built largely on India’s involvement.
If India pulls out, this lucrative deal could be subject to renegotiation, potentially at a steep discount. ACC members, including PCB, currently receive 15% of the broadcast revenue, which could shrink drastically in a revised contract.
Will other Asian countries suffer from India's withdrawal?
India’s potential withdrawal could reverberate across the Asian cricketing ecosystem. Countries like Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, which rely heavily on Indian audiences and sponsors, stand to lose both exposure and revenue. India’s massive digital reach fuels not only TV ratings but also online engagement, making Indian viewership a cornerstone of monetization strategies, especially on platforms like YouTube.
Fewer high-profile matches also mean fewer opportunities for Pakistani players to showcase their talent on a global stage, which could impact player endorsements, sponsorship deals, and fan engagement.
