Published on: Jul 29, 2025 4:44 pm IST|Updated on: Jul 29, 2025 4:49 pm IST
The wait is almost over for the Asia Cup 2025. The premier tournament among the Asian teams is set to deliver a thrilling spectacle of cricket, bringing together eight competitive teams from across the continent in a fast-paced T20 format. Scheduled from September 9 to September 28, the tournament will be hosted in the United Arab Emirates, with matches played across Dubai and Abu Dhabi. This edition serves as a crucial preparatory ground for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2026, offering both full-member and associate nations a chance to fine-tune their squads and strategies.
The 2025 edition follows a T20I format, aligning with the upcoming global ICC event. The eight participating teams are divided into two groups:
Each team plays the others in their group once. The top two teams from each group advance to the Super Four stage, where every team plays each other once. The top two sides from the Super Four will then face off in the final on September 28 at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai.
Here’s a breakdown of the group stage fixtures:
The Super Four matches begin on September 20 and run through September 26, with the final scheduled for September 28. The fixtures are as follows:
Arguably the most anticipated clash of the tournament, this group-stage encounter will be held in Dubai. With both teams placed in Group A, fans could witness up to three India-Pakistan matches if both sides progress to the Super Four and final. However, with the past geographical tensions between the two nations, BCCI is still in a dilemma of going forward with this marquee clash or not.
A crucial Group B fixture that could determine early momentum. Both teams have a history of close contests in the Asia Cup and will be eager to assert dominance. Sri Lanka would be out for vengeance, especially after Bangladesh humbled them in their own backyard recently in a 3-match T20I series with a margin of 2-1.
Afghanistan’s rise in T20 cricket makes this a must-watch. Their spin-heavy attack could challenge Bangladesh’s middle order on Dubai’s slower surface. Both teams will rely on their spin prowess in what could be an exciting battle.
The Asia Cup 2025 is all set to be played at two venues in UAE, i.e., the Dubai International Stadium and the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. Let’s take a look at how the two venues have fared in the past.
Check out the T20 International numbers at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai.
Check out the T20 International numbers at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi.
The Asia Cup alternates between ODI and T20I formats depending on the upcoming ICC global event. India leads with 8 titles, followed by Sri Lanka with 6 titles and Pakistan with 2.
Defending champions and the most successful team in Asia Cup history, a young Indian team will be led by Suryakumar Yadav. Expect a mix of youth and experience, with players like Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, and Hardik Pandya forming the core.
Pakistan’s T20 side is in a transition phase after two of the batting stalwarts, Muhammad Rizwan and Babar Azam, have been neglected by the selectors in the shortest format of the game. Led by Salman Ali Agha, Pakistan’s squad boasts firepower in both pace and spin departments. Shaheen Afridi, Shadab Khan, and Fakhar Zaman will be key to their campaign.
The six-time champions will rely on their all-rounders and young pace attack. Matheesha Pathirana and Wanindu Hasaranga are expected to play pivotal roles in bowling, whereas the likes of Kusal Mendis, Patthum Nissanka, and skipper Charith Asalanka will be leading the way with the bat.
With Rashid Khan and Fazalhaq Farooqi, Afghanistan remains a dark horse. Their spin-heavy unit could be lethal on UAE pitches.
The tournament will be broadcast globally, with Sony Pictures Networks India holding the media rights. Their investment of USD 170 million over eight years underscores the commercial significance of the Asia Cup.
Due to ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan, the tournament is being held at a neutral venue. The BCCI remains the official host, but matches are scheduled in the UAE to ensure participation from all teams. This arrangement mirrors the hybrid model used in previous editions.