India unlikely to host Asia cup
India may be on the verge of losing out on the 2018 Asia Cup scheduled to take place in September 2018, if Indian government does not allow the BCCI to host Pakistan in the tournament. Relationship between the two nations has gotten strained over the years and sporting ties have been suspended. Earlier, India also lost the opportunity to host the Under-19 Asia Cup.
Government to decide fate of Asia cup
An official from BCCI said "It's not clear whether Government will allow Pakistan team to travel to India. If not, BCCI needs to inform the Asian Cricket Council of the same so that an alternate host country can be finalised."
Political tensions causing problems with sporting ties
The relationship between the two nations remains in turmoil over the disputed region of Kashmir. Team India has refused to compete with Pakistan at various sporting events. Pakistani cricketers are also not allowed to play in the cash rich Indian Premier League. The government's stand is cricket and terror can not go hand in hand.
Bilateral ties suspended since 2013
India last played a bilateral series with Pakistan in 2012-2013 featuring 3 ODIs and 2 T20Is. Since then, the two nations have played each other only at ICC events. Pakistan Cricket Board had also filed for compensation of $70 million against the BCCI for not honouring its agreement to a hold bilateral series.
Who will host the Asia Cup?
It will be interesting to see which country steps up to host the Asia cup if thrown away by India. Bangladesh hosted the last edition and India are the reigning Asia Cup champions after winning the 2016 edition by beating Bangladesh. India had the perfect opportunity to retain the title at home, but now it all lies in the hands of the the government.
