The upcoming Asia Cup 2025 is scheduled to commence on September 9th, setting the stage for potential high-octane matches between India and Pakistan. The two rivals are grouped together in Group A, along with the UAE and Oman. Cricket fans could witness the teams face off on Sunday, September 14th. A second encounter is likely on Sunday, September 21st, during the Super Four stage. Furthermore, there’s a possibility of a third match in the final, should both teams advance, potentially leading to three India-Pakistan matches within three weeks. Interestingly, despite their long history, these teams have never met in the tournament final.
India’s first match is on September 10th, with all matches held in Dubai, UAE. Group B consists of Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Hong Kong. The tournament will feature 19 matches across two venues: Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Each team will have a 17-member squad.
The tournament, although hosted by the BCCI, will be held in the UAE. This decision was made during an Asian Cricket Council (ACC) meeting on July 24th. The change in venue stems from the agreement between India and Pakistan to play at neutral venues until at least 2027 due to ongoing political tensions.
The ACC, under its current agreement with broadcasters, places India and Pakistan in the same group to ensure at least two matches between them. The tournament format increases the possibility of an exciting final, if both teams progress through the knockout stages.