Dubai, The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has officially announced that the 2025 edition of the Asia Cup will be hosted by the United Arab Emirates from September 9 to 28. The decision was confirmed after extensive consultations among member boards, with the UAE chosen for its neutral location, climate advantage, and proven capacity to host multi-nation events.
This edition of the Asia Cup will be played in the One-Day International (ODI) format, making it a key preparatory tournament for Asian teams ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 scheduled in Pakistan early next year.
The six-team tournament will include India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Nepal, which qualified through the ACC Premier Cup. The matches are expected to be held at three venues—Dubai International Stadium, Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah Cricket Stadium.
It will be the sixth time the UAE hosts the Asia Cup, having previously staged the tournament in 1984, 1995, 2000, 2018, and 2022. The 2025 edition will feature a group stage, followed by a Super Four round, and a final. The detailed schedule is expected to be released in mid-August.
The highly anticipated India vs Pakistan clash is likely to take place at the Dubai International Stadium and is expected to be held under lights. The ACC is in talks with broadcasters to finalise primetime slots for key fixtures to maximise viewership across the region.
India are the defending champions, having won the 2023 edition by defeating Sri Lanka in the final. The 2023 tournament was co-hosted by Sri Lanka and Pakistan and faced logistical hurdles due to rain disruptions in Colombo.
This year’s Asia Cup carries added significance as all participating teams are preparing for the ICC Champions Trophy. Team selections are expected by the end of August. India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh are expected to field full-strength squads, while Nepal will make its second appearance in the continental tournament.
The UAE has emerged as a preferred neutral venue for international cricket in recent years. The successful hosting of the IPL, T20 World Cup, and previous Asia Cups have strengthened the region’s role as a reliable tournament hub.
The ACC is working closely with the Emirates Cricket Board to finalise arrangements. Ticketing details, travel advisories, and match-day protocols are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
The Asia Cup 2025 will be closely followed by cricket fans across the continent, particularly as it marks the return of full ODI-format competition among top Asian teams ahead of a packed international calendar.
