Uncertainty looms over Asia Cup telecast in Pakistan

Uncertainty hangs over whether Pakistanis will be able to watch the Asia Cup 2025 on television, as the official broadcaster, an India-based company, is demanding an exorbitant $12 million for local TV rights. This steep fee poses a serious threat to the tournament’s availability on screens across the country.

According to sources, the asking price far exceeds the estimated value of Pakistan’s broadcast market, which is closer to $4 million. This massive gap has placed local broadcasters in a difficult position. Some television networks are exploring the possibility of forming a consortium to jointly secure the rights and share the financial burden. They are expected to meet soon to discuss this major issue.

“Yes, we’re interested in meeting other broadcasters,” a source from a leading TV channel told Nukta, “but I can’t share when the meeting will take place.”

The source further explained, “The asking price is too high considering how much the local market has shrunk, and with the uncertainty surrounding India’s participation, it’s a risky investment.”

“For now, everyone’s waiting,” the source added.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has agreed to host the tournament in the UAE. The schedule for the eight-nation event, set to run from September 9 to 28, has already been announced by the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), currently chaired by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) head Mohsin Naqvi.

If both India and Pakistan reach the final, they could face off as many as three times during the competition. However, ongoing political tensions between the two countries cast a shadow over such possibilities. Indian media outlets are actively promoting narratives opposing India’s participation in the Asia Cup, and tensions between India and Bangladesh are reportedly rising as well.

India recently opted out of matches against Pakistan during the World Championship of Legends in England, skipping both a group stage clash and the semifinal. These absences negatively affected the global appeal of that tournament.

Last year, the ACC sold global media rights for the Asia Cup cycle (2024–2031) for a massive $170 million, underlining the tournament’s value on the world stage.

In the upcoming event, Group A features India, Pakistan, Oman, and hosts UAE, while Group B consists of Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and Hong Kong.

Pakistan will kick off their campaign on September 12 against Oman, followed by a marquee match against India on September 14, and then UAE on September 17. The Super Four stage will be held from September 20 to 26, with the final scheduled for September 28. All matches will be hosted in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

However, Pakistan’s recent struggles on the international stage, combined with declining TV ratings, are major obstacles for broadcasters. These challenges have made local channels hesitant to commit to such a costly rights deal.