DUBAI — In what promises to be one of the most politically charged and fiercely contested cricketing events of the year, India and Pakistan are set to clash in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, scheduled from September 9 to 28 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The tournament will be played in the T20 format and is being seen as a crucial build-up to the T20 World Cup next year.
What is happening?
The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has confirmed that the Asia Cup 2025 will be held in the UAE, instead of India as originally planned. This change comes amid ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack in April, which killed 26 civilians and led to military escalations and diplomatic standstills.
In a significant move, India and Pakistan have been placed in the same group, meaning the tournament could feature up to three India-Pakistan matches - once in the group stage, again in the Super Four, and potentially in the final if both teams advance.
Who is involved?
The announcement was made by Mohsin Naqvi, ACC Chairman and head of the Pakistan Cricket Board, via his official Twitter account. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which still holds hosting rights despite the venue change, confirmed that its vice-president Rajeev Shukla attended the ACC meeting virtually in Dhaka, where the neutral venue was decided.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said an official schedule will be released soon, adding, “I don’t believe in speculations, so you will get to know officially in a few days' time.”
When and Where is the tournament?
The tournament is scheduled from September 9 to 28, 2025, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi set to host all 19 matches. India is expected to play its games in Dubai, with high-profile matches - especially against Pakistan - likely to attract record crowds and huge global TV audiences.
Why UAE?
The UAE was chosen as a neutral venue due to strained political relations and military tensions, especially after the Pahalgam attack. There had been speculation that India might withdraw, but the BCCI denied this. Both cricket boards agreed not to travel across borders for ICC or ACC events under the current Future Tours Programme.
The UAE has proven to be a reliable neutral ground for India-Pakistan matches, as seen in the recent Champions Trophy where India beat Pakistan thanks to a century from Virat Kohli before going on to win the tournament.
What’s at stake?
Cricket fans worldwide are excited about the chance to see three India-Pakistan matches in one month - an unusual occurrence given the lack of bilateral series between the two countries. However, the decision has faced criticism from some Indian fans who feel playing Pakistan sends the wrong message amid current nationalistic tensions and border clashes.
This controversy echoes recent events at the World Championship of Legends, where several Indian cricket legends chose not to play against Pakistan following public backlash, adding complexity to the Asia Cup decision.
How will the format work?
The Asia Cup will feature eight teams playing a T20 format, with group stages, Super Four matches, and a final. The setup guarantees at least one India-Pakistan match early on, with the possibility of two more, including a high-stakes final.
Despite the political challenges, cricket diplomacy has found a way forward. With India and Pakistan in the same group, the UAE will once again host one of the most intense sporting rivalries in the world. Fans can expect thrilling action both on and off the field. Whether this tournament becomes a bridge or battleground, the Asia Cup 2025 is set to capture the world’s attention.
