To avoid complications arising from India-Pakistan cricketing relations, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) is expected to relocate the Asia Cup 2025 from India to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), according to reports.
The highly anticipated clash between the arch-rivals is likely to take place again this year, as the ACC has tentatively scheduled the continental tournament for September. The event, which will follow the T20 format, is expected to feature 19 matches and will be held between the second and fourth week of September.
Originally allocated to India, the tournament’s hosting arrangements have been altered due to ongoing geopolitical tensions. While the official venue has not been confirmed, reports suggest that the ACC is considering either Sri Lanka or the UAE. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will retain its status as the official host.
Previously, India and Pakistan played under a hybrid model in the UAE for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 after India declined to travel to Pakistan. The two boards later reached an agreement stipulating that matches between the two nations in events hosted by either country will be held at neutral venues until 2027.
The Asia Cup 2025 will feature eight teams: India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, UAE, Oman, and Hong Kong. Nepal, which participated in the 2023 edition, failed to qualify for this year’s tournament and will not be part of the competition.
The format will follow the structure of the previous edition, with teams divided into two groups. The top two teams from each group will advance to the Super Four stage, and the leading two sides will compete in the final.
