The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has officially set the stage for the 17th edition of the Asia Cup, confirming a September 9-28, 2025, window in the United Arab Emirates. This T20 tournament serves as critical preparation for the 2026 T20 World Cup and features an expanded eight-team lineup – but it’s already embroiled in political tension and blockbuster cricketing prospects.
Tournament Format & Teams
Marking a historic expansion, the Asia Cup welcomes eight squads split into two groups:
| Group A | Group B |
|---|---|
| India | Sri Lanka |
| Pakistan | Bangladesh |
| United Arab Emirates (Host) | Afghanistan |
| Oman | Hong Kong |
The top two teams from each group advance to the Super Four stage (Sept 20-26), with the top two Super Four teams battling in the final on September 28 in Dubai. A total of 19 matches will unfold across Dubai and Abu Dhabi under floodlights (7:30 PM GST / 9:00 PM IST). View the complete schedule on the ACC’s official portal.
India’s Crucial Fixtures & Pakistan Showdowns
Defending champions India face a high-pressure path:
- September 10: India vs UAE (Dubai)
- September 14: India vs Pakistan (Dubai International Stadium)
- September 19: India vs Oman
Potential follow-up clashes:
- September 21: Possible India vs Pakistan in Super Four
- September 28: Potential third India-Pakistan final
“The BCCI cannot withdraw from the tournament or the match now. The decision was agreed upon after the ACC meeting. Since India is the host nation, nothing can be changed at this stage” – BCCI sources confirmed.
Political Firestorm: Why BCCI Faces Backlash
The confirmation of an India-Pakistan clash on September 14 ignited immediate controversy following April’s Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir (which killed 26 Indians). Critics demand a sporting boycott:
- Political Opposition: Leaders like Priyanka Chaturvedi (Shiv Sena) slammed BCCI’s “profit over blood of Indians,” urging nationwide protests.
- Former Players Divided: Ex-India captain Mohammad Azharuddin questioned, “If you’re not playing bilateral games, you shouldn’t play international events either.”
- Pakistan’s Retort: Danish Kaneria accused India of “selective patriotism,” referencing India’s withdrawal from the World Championship of Legends match vs Pakistan in July.
Key Context & Broadcast Details
- Host Shift: Though BCCI is the official host, all games occur in UAE per a neutral-venue agreement between BCCI-PCB until 2027.
- Broadcast: Star Sports (India), Disney+ Hotstar, TNT Sports (UK), SuperSport (SA), and Ariana TV (Afghanistan) hold rights.
- Squad Size: Teams will carry 17 players.
Beyond the geopolitical drama, this Asia Cup offers vital T20 practice before the 2026 World Cup. India eyes a record-extending ninth title, while Sri Lanka (six titles) and Pakistan (two) aim to challenge. Debutants Oman and resurgent UAE add unpredictability.