The Men’s Asia Cup 2025 will be held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from September 9 to 28, Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi announced on Saturday. The high-octane clash between traditional rivals India and Pakistan will take place on Sunday, September 14, at the Dubai International Stadium, as per the draft itinerary.
India is scheduled to begin its campaign against UAE on September 10, followed by Pakistan (Sep 14) and Oman (Sep 19) — all matches likely to be held in Dubai.
The eight participating nations have been divided into two groups:
Group A: India, Pakistan, UAE, Oman
Group B: Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Hong Kong
India’s Group League Matches
Sep 10: India vs UAE
Sep 14: India vs Pakistan
Sep 19: India vs Oman
Super Four Schedule (Top two from each group)
Sep 20: B1 vs B2
Sep 21: A1 vs A2 (likely India vs Pakistan)
Sep 23: A2 vs B1
Sep 24: A1 vs B2
Sep 25: A2 vs B2
Sep 26: A1 vs B1
Sep 28: Final
The ACC has allowed 17-member squads for the 19-match tournament, with games scheduled across Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Although BCCI is the official host, the tournament is being held in the UAE under mutual understanding between India and Pakistan, who have agreed to play only at neutral venues till 2027 due to ongoing cross-border tensions.
According to ACC’s broadcasting arrangement, India and Pakistan are placed in the same group to maximise audience engagement, with a second likely face-off in the Super Four and a potential third showdown in the final, should both teams advance.
This edition of the Asia Cup follows the T20 format, aligning with the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, which is set to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
