T20 Format Event to Happen in UAE from September 12 through 28
Clouds of Doubt Start Dispersing Over Asia Cup 2025
The confusion over the Asia Cup 2025 is finally starting to clear, with it being reported that there is a tentative calendar for the highly anticipated T20 tournament. Due to persistent political tensions between India and Pakistan, there have been questions about the viability of the tournament, but sources now confirm that the tournament is going ahead as scheduled.
Tentative Schedule: September 12 to 28
Reliable sources confirm that the T20 Asia Cup 2025 is set to take place from September 12 to 28, with India assigned as the official host of the tournament. But on account of security and logistical issues, especially due to political tensions, all matches will most likely be staged in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Political Tensions Put Spotlight on India-Pakistan Clash
The political tension between India and Pakistan—especially following recent events—had overshadowed the event. Both countries are among the six participating teams, but the fate of a high-stakes India vs Pakistan match still depends on diplomatic certification.
Sources also confirmed that there had already been talks regarding the Asia Cup even before the Champions Trophy final, which took place before the Pahalgam incident. In those meetings, influential stakeholders of Asian cricket boards were said to have agreed to proceed with India as the host country but change the venue to the UAE.
UAE Likely to Host Matches Again
Given the history of successful events hosted in the UAE—especially during politically sensitive periods—officials see the Emirates as a neutral and safe location. It also offers world-class facilities and large South Asian fan bases, making it an ideal alternative for hosting the Asia Cup 2025.
Format and Purpose of This Year’s Asia Cup
The Asia Cup 2025 will be played in the T20 format, aligning with preparations for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2026. The format increases the thrill, particularly among fans yearning for action-packed short cricket with the best Asian teams.
The tournament will be contested by six teams, which are:
India (Defending champions)
Pakistan
Sri Lanka
Bangladesh
Afghanistan
One qualifying team
India’s Vice President of BCCI, Rajeev Shukla, has been entrusted with the organization of the event preparations.
Fans Anticipating Despite Diplomatic Disputes
Even as political affairs remain to haunt, supporters throughout Asia and the world are impatiently looking forward to the return of the Asia Cup in the T20 version. The potential to see historic rivalries, such as India vs Pakistan, brings an element of excitement and expectation to the tournament.
If the tournament goes ahead as scheduled, it will be an important event in the cricketing schedule in the run-up to the next T20 World Cup.
