ISLAMABAD; Cricket’s fiercest rivals, Pakistan and India, are set to renew their legendary rivalry as the ACC Men’s Asia Cup 2025 is officially scheduled to take place in the United Arab Emirates from September 9 to 28. The high-voltage encounter between the two sides is slated for September 14—most likely at the iconic Dubai Sports City Cricket Stadium. With both nations placed in the same group, the tournament promises thrilling clashes, passionate crowds, and a celebration of Asian cricket at its finest.
The announcement was made by Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi via his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Saturday. While the full match schedule and venue details are yet to be finalized, it’s expected that games will be staged in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
This year’s tournament will feature eight teams, divided into two groups. Group A comprises Pakistan, India, UAE, and Oman, while Group B includes Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Hong Kong, and Afghanistan. After the group stage, the top two teams from each group will advance to the Super Four stage, leading to a final showdown.
Given that India and Pakistan are in the same group, fans could be treated to as many as three encounters between the two powerhouses if both make it to the Super Four and the final. The fierce rivalry, high stakes, and regional pride ensure that these matches will be the most anticipated events of the tournament.
Naqvi, in his announcement, expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming event. “I am delighted to confirm the dates for the ACC Men’s Asia Cup 2025 in the UAE. The prestigious tournament will take place from September 9 to 28,” he said. “We look forward to a spectacular display of cricket! A detailed schedule will be out soon.”
The tournament’s confirmation follows the ACC’s recent meeting in Bangladesh, where the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) requested time to consult with its key commercial and logistical stakeholders before giving final approval. A senior ACC official noted that all concerns were subsequently resolved, enabling President Naqvi to publicly announce the tournament window.
“There are a few commercial and logistical matters the BCCI needed to settle with sponsors. Once those were addressed, the official confirmation was passed on to the ACC,” said the official.
Naqvi later reaffirmed his confidence in the tournament’s successful execution, downplaying earlier media speculation suggesting India might withdraw due to political reasons. “This is primarily a matter between the BCCI and ACC, and I am confident all issues will be ironed out. The event will proceed as scheduled,” he stated.
Earlier this year, speculation over India’s participation intensified after a promotional poster appeared to highlight only India and Sri Lanka. However, the PCB quickly dismissed such rumors and confirmed that Pakistan’s participation remains firm.
With political tensions set aside and logistical arrangements moving forward, Asia Cup 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting celebration of Asian cricket, promising fierce competition and memorable moments for fans across the region.
