Tournament Overview

The 17th edition of the Men’s Asia Cup will be played in the United Arab Emirates from September 9 to 28, 2025, in the T20 International format. The matches will be split between two world-class venues: the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai and the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi.

Format and Teams

Eight teams will participate in this edition of the tournament: India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, UAE, Oman, and Hong Kong.

The teams are divided into two groups:

• Group A: India, Pakistan, UAE, Oman
• Group B: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Hong Kong

The top two teams from each group will qualify for the Super Four, and the best two sides from that stage will face off in the Final.

Key Fixtures

• Opening Match: Afghanistan vs Hong Kong on September 9 in Abu Dhabi
• India’s First Match: India vs UAE on September 10 in Dubai
• India vs Pakistan: The high-voltage clash is set for September 14 in Dubai, with possible rematches in the Super Four (September 21) and even the Final (September 28)
• Final: Scheduled for September 28 in Dubai

Players to Watch

India enters the tournament with strong depth in both batting and bowling. All-rounder Axar Patel has been highlighted as a potential game-changer, capable of influencing matches with both bat and ball. Ajinkya Rahane recently called him one of the most underrated players in the current setup.

For Pakistan, the spotlight will be on their fiery pace attack, expected to test batting line-ups on UAE pitches. Sri Lanka’s spin department, led by experienced bowlers, could also play a decisive role in the middle overs.

Among the associate nations, UAE will be led by Muhammad Waseem, with fresh inclusions such as Matiullah Khan and Simranjeet Singh hoping to make an impression on the big stage.

Talking Points

• India’s new sponsor-free jersey has already caught attention, bringing a clean and classic look to the team’s kit.
• Experts are debating India’s preferred opening combination, with young players competing for a place alongside seasoned names.
• Afghanistan, with their mix of explosive batters and world-class spinners, are seen as potential dark horses in the tournament.

Final Thoughts

The Asia Cup 2025 promises high drama, close finishes, and plenty of talking points ahead of the T20 World Cup next year. The group stage will be crucial, but the real intensity begins in the Super Four, where the best teams of the continent will battle for a spot in the final.

Fans can expect another chapter in the storied India-Pakistan rivalry, while the rise of associate nations like UAE and Oman adds an exciting layer to this year’s competition.