ACC President Mohsin Naqvi leads ceremony as cricketing nations prepare for three weeks of high-intensity T20 action.
Asia Cup 2025 Begins Today with Trophy Unveiling and Opening Clash in Abu Dhabi
The trophy for the ACC Men’s Asia Cup 2025 was officially unveiled in a glittering ceremony held in Dubai, marking the beginning of one of the most anticipated tournaments on the Asian cricket calendar. The event was led by Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President Mohsin Naqvi, who also serves as the Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
The trophy unveiling ceremony featured the captains of all eight participating nations, symbolizing unity and competition ahead of the tournament’s kickoff. The Asia Cup 2025 begins today (Tuesday) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with Afghanistan facing Hong Kong in the tournament’s opening match at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi.
Cricket fever is sweeping across the continent as teams finalize their squads and fans gear up for 17 days of action-packed T20 cricket. The tournament will be played across two venues — the Dubai International Cricket Stadium and Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, with Abu Dhabi hosting eight matches, including a Super Four encounter on September 23, and Dubai set to host the majority of fixtures, including the potentially explosive Pakistan-India matches.
Tournament Format, Fixtures, and Key Match-Ups
The eight teams are divided into two groups:
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Group A: Pakistan, India, Oman, UAE
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Group B: Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Hong Kong
Pakistan, fresh off a tri-nation series victory, begin their campaign on September 12 against Oman in Dubai. Their highly anticipated clash against India is scheduled for September 14, also in Dubai. The group stage concludes for Pakistan with a match against the UAE on September 17.
India’s skipper Suryakumar Yadav, speaking at the unveiling, expressed his team’s enthusiasm for the tournament, emphasizing the unpredictable and thrilling nature of T20 cricket: “It’s a format where any team can shine on the day. We’re excited and fully prepared.”
From each group, the top two teams will progress to the Super Four stage, leading up to the final match scheduled for September 28 in Dubai.
All matches are set to begin at 6:00 PM Gulf Standard Time (7:00 PM PST), except the September 15 match between UAE and Oman, which will follow a revised schedule.
Call for Sportsmanship Ahead of Pakistan-India Clashes
With two potential Pakistan vs India encounters on the cards, legendary former pacer Wasim Akram has called on players and fans alike to maintain discipline and avoid hostility during what are expected to be emotionally charged matchups. “It’s a game of cricket, not a war. Let’s support our teams with passion, but within limits,” he urged.
As the tournament kicks off, the stage is set for thrilling performances, rising stars, and historic rivalries in the heart of the UAE.
