Asia Cup 2025 confirmed; set for UAE from Sept 9 to 28
The 2025 edition of the Men’s Asia Cup will take place in the UAE from September 9 to 28, Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president Mohsin Naqvi confirmed via social media on Saturday.
Initially delayed due to diplomatic tensions and commercial negotiations, the green light finally came after India secured government clearance. This marks a notable shift in India’s stance on sporting ties with Pakistan, despite recent geopolitical hostilities, including Operation Sindoor in response to a terror attack in Pahalgam. Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya recently indicated that while bilateral ties with Pakistan remain frozen, multilateral events are acceptable — especially with India’s aspirations to host the 2036 Olympics.
Eight teams — India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, UAE, Hong Kong, and Oman — will compete in 19 matches. With India and Pakistan in the same group, fans could witness up to three high-stakes encounters.
The tournament will follow the Twenty20 format, serving as a vital lead-up to the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.