Asia Cup 2025 Scheduled in UAE: Key Matches and Teams Announced
Announcement of Asia Cup 2025 Dates
The President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), Mohsin Naqvi, revealed on Saturday that the men's Asia Cup will take place from September 9 to September 28 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Exciting Matches Ahead
According to the preliminary schedule obtained by the media, the highly anticipated group stage match between India and Pakistan is set for Sunday, September 14, at the Dubai International Stadium. Both teams are in the same group, and they may face each other again in the Super Four match on Sunday, September 21.
India's Campaign Begins
India will kick off its campaign against the UAE on September 10, with all its matches likely to be held in Dubai. Group A consists of India, Pakistan, UAE, and Oman, while Group B includes Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Hong Kong. The ACC will allow a 17-member squad for this 19-match tournament, which will be played in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Official Confirmation from PCB
Naqvi, the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), made a formal announcement on 'X', stating, 'I am pleased to confirm the dates for the ACC Men's Asia Cup 2025 in the UAE. This prestigious tournament will take place from September 9 to 28. We expect to witness some fantastic cricket, and a detailed schedule will be released soon.'
Venue Decision and Neutral Grounds
The decision regarding the Asia Cup's venue was made during the ACC meeting on July 24, which was attended by representatives from all 25 member countries. Although the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is the tournament host, it is being held in the UAE due to the current tensions between India and Pakistan, which have led both nations to agree to compete only at neutral venues until 2027.
Group Dynamics and Future Matches
As per the agreements with ACC broadcasters, India and Pakistan will be placed in the same group, providing them another opportunity to clash in the Super Six stage. If both teams reach the finals, a third match between them could also occur during the tournament.
T20 Format for Upcoming Asia Cup
In light of the upcoming T20 World Cup scheduled in India and Sri Lanka, this edition of the Asia Cup will be conducted in the T20 format. The tournament's structure typically aligns with the format of the next ICC global event.