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DHAKA: The tentative dates for the much-anticipated Asia Cup 2025 have been announced, featuring a high-stakes match between arch-rivals India and Pakistan, as reported by ARY News on Thursday.
According to sources, the tournament is expected to take place in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from September 8 to 28, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi likely to serve as host cities.
In a significant development during the Asian Cricket Council’s (ACC) annual meeting in Dhaka, it was decided that the upcoming edition will feature eight teams, up from six in the previous edition.
The five full-member nations, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan, will be joined by the UAE, Oman, and Hong Kong, the top performers from the ACC Premier Cup.
The Asia Cup 2025 will be held in the T20 format, keeping in line with the build-up to the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
If the draw falls as expected, fans could witness at least two high-voltage India–Pakistan clashes, one in the group stage and potentially another in the Super Four phase.
Originally, India was designated as the host, but ongoing political tensions with Pakistan have led to a neutral venue arrangement.
The tournament’s shift to the UAE continues a broader diplomatic compromise between the PCB and BCCI, reportedly agreeing to avoid bilateral travel for ICC events over the next three years.
An official announcement from the ACC is expected soon, confirming dates, fixtures, and venues.
It is worth noting that India are the defending champions, having crushed Sri Lanka by 10 wickets in the ODI-format final of the previous edition.
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