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BVCI publicizes the primary Asian Legends Cup for 40-plus cricketers in Chiang Mai, Thailand, featuring India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, UAE, and Hong Kong.
Several former international players are expected to participate. (AFP Photo)
The Board for Veteran Cricket in India (BVCI) has confirmed the first-ever Asian Legends Cup, a brand new championship for 40-plus cricketers from across Asia. The tournament might be held in Chiang Mai, Thailand, from January 28 to February 4, featuring six teams – India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, UAE, and Hong Kong.
Announcing the event, BVCI President Praveen Tyagi described it as a historic step. “For the primary time, an Indian veterans’ team will compete in an Asia-level championship. This can be a landmark moment for us, and a dream we’ve worked toward for years,” he said.
Tyagi revealed that several former international players are set to participate.
“Pakistan’s likely squad can have Shoaib Malik because the captain, Abdul Razzaq is within the team, and Wasim Akram may join as coach. Every team can have three to 4 international players together with top domestic names,” he said.
India’s squad, expected to be announced shortly, will feature ex-players like Praveen Kumar, Jatin Saxena, Shadab Jakati, and Manoj Prabhakar, amongst other seasoned domestic performers. Selection has been based on performances within the recently concluded inter-zonal veterans’ tournaments.
Explaining the creation of the Asian Legends Cup, Tyagi said the thought was rooted within the long-running veterans’ ecosystem.
“Veteran cricket in India has existed for 26 years. The BVCI was formed by late Chetan Chauhan in 1998 to make sure retired cricketers stay connected to the sport. Players who dedicated their whole lives to cricket deserve a platform even after they retire,” he said.
Tyagi added that the Asia-level expansion was a natural progression. “Just as India has a structured veterans’ circuit, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh also run similar setups. Everyone welcomed the thought of an Asia Cup for veterans, and the joy could be very high,” he said.
The selection of Thailand was each strategic and logistical. “Thailand is a central, neutral location where teams can travel easily. The local organisers are supporting us with ground and accommodation arrangements, which helps because our board isn’t financially very strong,” Tyagi explained.
The championship might be broadcast live globally on YouTube and FanCode.
Asked about India’s policy on playing Pakistan, Tarunesh Parihar, the CEO of the upcoming league, said it was premature to comment.
“That is sport – it brings people together. If through this championship we are able to send a positive message, that in itself is meaningful.”
Tyagi expressed confidence that the event would develop into an annual property. “This is just the start. The Asian Legends Cup might be held yearly, and we’re already exploring a Veterans’ World Cup in the long run.”
Click here so as to add News18 as your selected news source on Google. December 11, 2025, 10:56 IST
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