Asia Cup 2025: Schedule, Groups, Teams & Host Country
The Asia Cup 2025 is set to be one of the most thrilling cricket tournaments of the year, bringing together Asia’s top cricketing nations in a high-stakes T20 format.
As defending champions, India will look to retain their title amid fierce competition from rivals like Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. Hosted in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from September 9 to 28, 2025, this 17th edition of the Asia Cup promises explosive matches, star-studded lineups, and unforgettable rivalries.
With the event just days away, here’s a detailed guide to the schedule, teams, format, venues, and more to get you excited.
Tournament Format and Structure
The Asia Cup 2025 will feature a T20 International (T20I) format, consisting of 19 matches in total. The tournament is divided into two main stages: the group stage and the Super Four, culminating in a grand final.
- Group Stage: Eight teams are split into two groups of four. Each team plays three round-robin matches within their group. The top team from each group advances to the Super Four.
- Super Four: The four qualified teams compete in a round-robin format, with the top two advancing to the final.
- Final: The ultimate showdown between the two best teams.
Participating Teams and Groups
Eight teams will battle it out in the Asia Cup 2025, including full-member nations and qualifiers. Hong Kong and Oman earned their spots through ACC qualifying tournaments, adding fresh talent to the mix. The groups are as follows:
Group A:
- India
- Pakistan
- United Arab Emirates (UAE)
- Oman
Group B:
- Bangladesh
- Sri Lanka
- Afghanistan
- Hong Kong
India, led by their dynamic squad, enters as favorites after their dominant performance in previous editions. Pakistan, with their unpredictable flair, will be a major threat, while Afghanistan’s spin wizards and Sri Lanka’s experience could spring surprises.
Full Match Schedule
All matches are scheduled to start at 15:30 BST (or equivalent local times), with the group stage running from September 9 to 19, followed by the Super Four from September 20 to 26, and the final on September 28.
Here’s the complete fixture list:
| Date | Match | Group/Stage | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 9 | Afghanistan vs Hong Kong | Group B | Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi |
| Sep 10 | India vs UAE | Group A | Dubai International Stadium, Dubai |
| Sep 11 | Bangladesh vs Hong Kong | Group B | Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi |
| Sep 12 | Pakistan vs Oman | Group A | Dubai International Stadium, Dubai |
| Sep 13 | Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka | Group B | Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi |
| Sep 14 | India vs Pakistan | Group A | Dubai International Stadium, Dubai |
| Sep 15 | UAE vs Oman | Group A | Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi |
| Sep 15 | Sri Lanka vs Hong Kong | Group B | Dubai International Stadium, Dubai |
| Sep 16 | Bangladesh vs Afghanistan | Group B | Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi |
| Sep 17 | Pakistan vs UAE | Group A | Dubai International Stadium, Dubai |
| Sep 18 | Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan | Group B | Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi |
| Sep 19 | India vs Oman | Group A | Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi |
| Sep 20–26 | Super Four Matches | Super Four | Dubai & Abu Dhabi Stadiums |
| Sep 28 | Final | Final | Dubai International Stadium, Dubai |
This schedule highlights the fast-paced nature of the tournament, with double-headers on select days to keep fans engaged.
Venues and Logistics
The tournament will be played across two iconic UAE venues, known for their world-class facilities and neutral pitches:
- Dubai International Stadium, Dubai: Hosting 11 matches, including the high-profile India vs Pakistan clash and the final. It’s renowned for its dew factor in evening games.
- Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi: Venue for 8 matches, offering a balanced surface for both bat and ball.
Teams like India have already begun arriving in Dubai for practice sessions, with players settling in ahead of the opener. The UAE’s hosting ensures top-notch organization, especially after successfully staging previous international events.
How to Follow the Asia Cup 2025
Fans can catch live action through official broadcasters, with streaming options available worldwide. Stay updated via cricket apps and websites for scores, highlights, and player stats. Social media will buzz with real-time reactions, especially during key fixtures.
Final Thoughts
As the Asia Cup 2025 kicks off on September 9 with Afghanistan vs Hong Kong in Abu Dhabi, anticipation is at an all-time high. Whether you’re rooting for India to defend their title or hoping for an underdog story from teams like Oman or Hong Kong, this tournament is a must-watch for cricket enthusiasts. Mark your calendars and get ready for 20 days of non-stop T20 excitement in the heart of the UAE!
