India-Pakistan clash on September 14 to headline Asia Cup 2025

MUMBAI: It’s official! The Asia Cup 2025 is set to take place in UAE from Sept 9 to 28. After months of uncertainty due to heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president Mohsin Naqvi confirmed the tournament dates on social media on Saturday.

TOI had earlier reported that decks were cleared for the 8-team tournament, which will be played in T20 format, after India agreed to attend the ACC meeting in Dhaka on July 24.

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India and Pakistan have been placed in Group A alongside UAE and Oman, while Group B comprises Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Hong Kong. On Saturday evening, the ACC issued a press release stating: “ACC’s flagship tournament will feature the highly anticipated showdown between India and Pakistan, with their first clash scheduled for 14 September 2025.” In fact, the arch-rivals could meet up to three times — in the group stage (Sept 14), the Super 4 stage (Sept 21), and potentially the final on Sept 28. Later, the ACC released the full tournament schedule. The tournament will kick off with Afghanistan vs Hong Kong on Sept 9. Sept 15 will feature the only double-header, while Sept 22 and 27 have been designated as rest days.

It’s evident that the Indian govt has cleared the India-Pakistan fixture. Despite antiPakistan sentiments, the government appears to be taking a pragmatic view on sporting ties. With India aiming to host the Commonwealth Games (2030), Asian Games (2034), and the Olympics (2036), a flexible approach to international sporting events is seen as necessary. Dubai and Abu Dhabi will host all matches. The tournament will feature eight teams with a total of 19 matches, culminating in the final on Sept 28.