Dubai, July 26 — The Asian Cricket Council has confirmed that the 2025 edition of the Asia Cup will be hosted by the United Arab Emirates from September 9 to 28. The decision was finalised following agreement among all member boards, with the UAE selected as the host nation due to its neutral location and ability to accommodate high-profile international fixtures.
The tournament will be played in the 50-over format, serving as a key preparation event for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which is scheduled to be held in Pakistan early next year. The Asia Cup will feature six teams: India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Nepal.
Matches are expected to be played across three venues — Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. The schedule is currently being finalised and is likely to be announced by mid-August. As per the expected format, the tournament will include a group stage, followed by the Super Four and the final.
This will be the sixth time the UAE has hosted the Asia Cup, having previously held the event in 1984, 1995, 2000, 2018, and 2022. The country has become a regular destination for international tournaments due to its reliable infrastructure and ease of access for teams and fans alike.
India won the previous edition of the Asia Cup in 2023, defeating Sri Lanka in the final at Colombo. The defending champions are expected to name a full-strength squad for the tournament. Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh are also likely to treat the tournament as a key part of their Champions Trophy preparation. For Nepal, this will be their second appearance in the continental tournament.
The marquee clash between India and Pakistan is expected to be held in Dubai and could be scheduled in the evening slot to maximise viewership. Security, ticketing, and broadcasting arrangements are being coordinated by the host board in consultation with the ACC.
The Asia Cup remains one of the most-watched cricket tournaments in the region and is expected to draw significant fan interest both on-ground and online. Further details, including ticket prices and hospitality packages, are expected to be released in the coming weeks.
