Asia Cup 2025 in UAE Confirmed from September 9 to 28
One of Asia’s biggest cricket tournaments finally has a home — the Asia Cup 2025 will unfold in the UAE this September. The Asia Cup 2025 in UAE has officially been confirmed. This exciting T20 tournament will take place from September 9 to 28, featuring eight teams from across Asia. The announcement was made by Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President Mohsin Naqvi, who shared the news on social media, saying fans can expect a thrilling month of cricket.
This year’s Asia Cup is already grabbing attention, especially because India and Pakistan will be playing in the same group. Fans are excited for what could be three intense matches between the two rivals — including a possible final clash on September 28.
Despite India being the official host, the tournament will be played in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) due to ongoing political tensions between India and Pakistan. The UAE, a neutral and experienced venue, was selected to ensure smooth matches and fair play.
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Why UAE is Hosting Asia Cup 2025
The Asia Cup 2025 in UAE is not just a cricket decision — it’s also a political one. Originally, India was the official host, but due to long-standing political tensions with Pakistan, it became nearly impossible for both teams to play on each other’s soil. To avoid any conflict or delays, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) decided to shift the tournament to the United Arab Emirates — a neutral country trusted by both sides.
This is not the first time UAE is stepping in as host. In the past too, when political or security issues came up, UAE has provided a safe and well-equipped ground for big matches. Both India and Pakistan agreed in a previous deal that till 2027, any tournament hosted by one side would be played on a neutral venue if both teams are involved.
The decision was finalized during the ACC Annual General Meeting in Dhaka, where all 25 member countries participated either physically or virtually. After some delay over broadcast and political clearances, things are now fully approved.
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Asia Cup 2025 Format and Participating Teams
The Asia Cup 2025 in UAE will be played in the T20 International format, keeping in view the T20 World Cup coming up next year. This fast-paced format makes the tournament even more thrilling for fans, with every over counting.
For the first time, the Asia Cup will feature eight teams instead of six. The five full members of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) — India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh — will be joined by UAE (host), Oman, and Hong Kong China.
Each team will play group-stage matches, and the top two teams from each group will move to the Super 4 stage. From there, the best two will fight it out in the final on September 28.
Participating Teams List:
- India
- Pakistan
- Sri Lanka
- Afghanistan
- Bangladesh
- United Arab Emirates
- Oman
- Hong Kong China
This format promises close contests and gives smaller teams like Oman and Hong Kong a chance to shine on a big stage.
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Asia Cup 2025 Groups and Full Match Schedule
The Asia Cup 2025 in UAE will have eight teams split into two groups. Each team will play matches within its group. The top two from each group will advance to the Super 4 stage, where teams face off in a round-robin format. The top two Super 4 teams will then compete in the final on September 28.
Group Breakdown:
Group A
- India
- Pakistan
- UAE
- Oman
Group B
- Sri Lanka
- Afghanistan
- Bangladesh
- Hong Kong China
Match Schedule (Group Stage + Super 4s + Final)
| Date | Match | Stage |
|---|---|---|
| Sep 9 | Afghanistan vs Hong Kong | Group B |
| Sep 10 | India vs UAE | Group A |
| Sep 11 | Bangladesh vs Hong Kong | Group B |
| Sep 12 | Pakistan vs Oman | Group A |
| Sep 13 | Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka | Group B |
| Sep 14 | India vs Pakistan | Group A |
| Sep 15 (DH) | UAE vs Oman SL vs HK | Group A & B |
| Sep 16 | Bangladesh vs Afghanistan | Group B |
| Sep 17 | Pakistan vs UAE | Group A |
| Sep 18 | Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan | Group B |
| Sep 19 | India vs Oman | Group A |
Super 4 Stage:
| Date | Match |
|---|---|
| Sep 20 | B1 vs B2 |
| Sep 21 | A1 vs A2 |
| Sep 23 | A2 vs B1 |
| Sep 24 | A1 vs B2 |
| Sep 25 | A2 vs B2 |
| Sep 26 | A1 vs B1 |
Final:
| Date | Match |
|---|---|
| Sep 28 (Sun) | Super 4 Top 2 Teams |
📌 Rest Days: September 22 and 27
📌 Double Header (DH): September 15
📌 Likely Venues: Dubai & Abu Dhabi (officially unconfirmed)
🇮🇳🇵🇰 India vs Pakistan – The Biggest Clash of Asia Cup 2025
In every Asia Cup, the match between India and Pakistan is the most watched and most hyped — and this year is no different. The two teams have been placed in Group A, which means they will face each other in the group stage on September 14 in the UAE.
If both teams qualify for the Super 4 stage, they’ll meet again on September 21. And if both reach the final, fans could witness a third India vs Pakistan showdown on September 28 — which would be a historic first, as these two rivals have never met in an Asia Cup final before.
This match is not just about cricket. It’s full of emotion, pressure, and pride. The rivalry between India and Pakistan is often called the “El Clasico” of cricket, attracting millions of viewers globally.
The reason for hosting these matches in the UAE is to avoid political issues. Both countries agreed to play each other only at neutral venues till 2027, making the Asia Cup 2025 in UAE the perfect setting for this blockbuster clash.
Venues, Security, and Match Logistics
Although the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has not officially confirmed the venues, matches for the Asia Cup 2025 in UAE are most likely to be held in Dubai and Abu Dhabi — two cities with world-class stadiums and strong cricket infrastructure. Both cities have previously hosted major ICC and ACC tournaments, including matches between India and Pakistan.
Given the high-stakes nature of the event, especially with matches like India vs Pakistan, strict security arrangements are expected. UAE authorities are known for their tight security protocols, and the matches are expected to be safe, smooth, and fan-friendly.
The logistics are being carefully managed, especially since this will be a tight 19-match schedule in just 20 days. To handle player fatigue and ensure fair rest, there are two official rest days: September 22 and September 27.
Since UAE is centrally located and visa-friendly for most Asian nations, it offers easy access for fans and media, making it an ideal neutral venue.
Asia Cup History – Past Winners and T20 Records
The Asia Cup started in 1984 and is the biggest cricket tournament in Asia. Over the years, it has been played in both ODI and T20 formats. Since 2016, the format changes depending on the upcoming ICC event — so because there’s a T20 World Cup in 2026, the Asia Cup 2025 in UAE will also be held in T20 format.
India is the most successful team in Asia Cup history with 8 titles, followed by Sri Lanka with 6, and Pakistan with 2.
Asia Cup Title Winners (All Editions)
| Team | Titles Won | Last Title |
|---|---|---|
| India | 8 | 2023 (ODI) |
| Sri Lanka | 6 | 2022 (T20) |
| Pakistan | 2 | 2012 (ODI) |
In the last T20-format Asia Cup (2022), Sri Lanka beat Pakistan in the final, while in 2023 (ODI format), India beat Sri Lanka in a one-sided match.
So far, India and Pakistan have never played an Asia Cup final against each other — and that’s why fans are excited that 2025 might make history.
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FAQs About Asia Cup 2025 in UAE
🔹 When will the Asia Cup 2025 be held?
The Asia Cup 2025 in UAE will take place from September 9 to 28, 2025.
🔹 Why is the Asia Cup being held in the UAE?
Although India is the official host, the tournament is being held in the UAE due to political tensions between India and Pakistan. Both countries agreed to play at neutral venues till 2027.
🔹 How many teams are playing in Asia Cup 2025?
A total of eight teams are participating: India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, UAE, Oman, and Hong Kong China.
🔹 What format is the Asia Cup 2025?
It will be played in the T20 format, in preparation for the T20 World Cup 2026.
🔹 When is the India vs Pakistan match?
India and Pakistan will face each other on September 14 in the group stage. If both qualify, they may meet again on September 21 (Super 4) and September 28 (Final).
🔹 Where will the matches be played?
The official venues haven’t been confirmed, but matches are expected to be held in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
🔹 Which team has won the most Asia Cup titles?
India has the most titles — 8 in total, including the latest in 2023 (ODI format).
Conclusion – What to Expect from Asia Cup 2025
The Asia Cup 2025 in UAE is set to deliver thrilling cricket, fierce rivalries, and unforgettable moments. With eight strong teams, a fast-paced T20 format, and the possibility of three India vs Pakistan matches, this tournament could become one of the most exciting editions in Asia Cup history.
The choice of the UAE as host ensures smooth logistics and a safe, neutral ground for all teams. Fans around the world are counting down to September 9, when the action begins. With the final set for September 28, cricket lovers are in for a full three weeks of non-stop excitement.
Whether you’re cheering for India, Pakistan, or any of the rising teams like Afghanistan or Oman — one thing is certain: the Asia Cup 2025 will be a tournament to remember.
