Dhaka, Aug. 22 -- After much drama and uncertainty, Indian cricket team will finally play in the upcoming Asia Cup.

The Indian government has cleared its cricket team to play in next month's event, but ruled out any revival of bilateral ties with Pakistan, reaffirming a long-standing political position that separates multilateral tournaments from one-on-one engagements.

The Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs of India, in a statement on Thursday, said Indian athletes will continue to compete in international competitions that include Pakistan, but teams from either side will not travel to the other's soil for bilateral events.

"India's approach to sports events involving Pakistan reflects its overall policy," the ministry said. "With ...