India has been awarded the hosting rights for the Asia Cup 2025. However, due to ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan, uncertainty still looms over the tournament. So far, no official announcement has been made, but a final decision is expected as early as next week.
Tournament Likely to Start from This Date
According to a report by Cricbuzz, if everything goes as planned, the Asia Cup 2025 could begin in the second week of September, possibly on 10 September. This time, the tournament will be played in the T20 format, featuring teams from India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and the UAE. Official broadcaster Sony Sports Network has already released a promo for the tournament.
Although India is the official host of the Asia Cup 2025, the event may be held in the UAE. The “hybrid model” is also being considered, under which Pakistan will play its matches outside of India. The 2025 Champions Trophy followed a similar model, where India played its matches in Dubai. Similarly, in the upcoming Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, which India will host, the Pakistan women’s team will play its matches in Colombo.
Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir in April. The situation worsened further in May following ‘Operation Sindoor’, casting more doubt on the Asia Cup. Bilateral cricket series between India and Pakistan have already been suspended for several years, and now, India reportedly doesn’t even want to face Pakistan in ICC group-stage matches. This issue is likely to be raised in the next ICC meeting.
Signs of Improvement in Cricket Ties
Despite tensions, recent developments suggest a slight shift in cricket relations between the two nations. The ICC has released the schedules for both the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 and Women’s T20 World Cup 2026. These tournaments include scheduled matches between India and Pakistan. The ODI World Cup clash is set for 5 October in Colombo, while the T20 World Cup match will be held on 14 June at Edgbaston.
Improved Situation, ACC Hopeful
The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) remains hopeful that the full schedule for Asia Cup 2025 will be released in the first week of July. While it may still be too early to say the tournament is confirmed, the current situation looks more positive than before.
There is a new ray of hope for the Asia Cup. However, neither the BCCI nor the ACC has issued any official statement yet. Matches between India and Pakistan generate the highest revenue, which is crucial not only for the BCCI but also for the ICC, ACC, and other participating nations.