ISLAMABAD:Pakistan is most likely to play its scheduled Asia Cup 2025 match in Dubai today, following a breakthrough understanding reached between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Dubai administration regarding the change of umpire for the game, insiders in PCB confirmed on Wednesday.
The development comes amid uncertainty created earlier in the week when reports suggested Pakistan might boycott the remainder of the tournament due to concerns over umpiring decisions in the high-voltage India-Pakistan clash in Dubai. The controversial decisions, widely debated in the media and cricketing circles, had raised strong reservations within the PCB and among the national squad.
However, officials privy to the matter told this correspondent that both sides have agreed to alter the umpiring panel for today’s game, paving the way for Pakistan to take the field as planned. The move is being seen as a confidence-building step to ensure the continuation of the tournament without further disruptions.
Sources in PCB emphasized that the agreement signals Pakistan’s willingness to continue participating in the remaining fixtures of the Asia Cup 2025, contrary to speculations that the team might pull out in protest. “With the umpiring adjustment in place, Pakistan will play today’s match and the rest of the tournament,” a source said.
The India-Pakistan match, already reported extensively in international media, has put a spotlight on tournament management and raised questions over neutrality in high-stakes contests. Today’s expected participation of Pakistan, however, is likely to calm the storm and restore focus back on cricket.
Cricket fans in Dubai and across the region are eagerly awaiting Pakistan’s return to the field, hoping that the Asia Cup continues smoothly with fair play and sporting spirit at the forefront.
