Pakistan and India Set for More Showdowns in 2025 Asia Cup
The much-anticipated cricket rivalry between Pakistan and India is set to continue in 2025, with the two teams expected to meet three more times this year. The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) is considering hosting the Asia Cup in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in September, which will consist of 19 matches. The tournament is tentatively scheduled between the second and fourth weeks of September.
According to media reports, India was initially assigned to host the Asia Cup. However, due to the ongoing political tensions between Pakistan and India, the ACC decided to move the tournament to a neutral venue. While the final location is still under discussion, Sri Lanka and the UAE are among the potential hosts, though the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will remain the designated host.
The move aims to avoid any potential conflicts between the two nations, as both Pakistan and India have long refrained from visiting each other’s countries for bilateral cricket series. A similar arrangement was made during the Champions Trophy, where India was allowed to play in Dubai under a hybrid model.
**Who Will Participate in the Asia Cup?**
Eight countries will compete in the Asia Cup, including Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, the UAE, Oman, Hong Kong, India, and Pakistan. Nepal, which participated in the 2023 Asia Cup, has failed to qualify for this edition.
As in previous editions, the eight teams will be divided into two groups, with Pakistan and India placed in the same group. The top two teams from each group will progress to the Super Four stage, where the top two teams will face off in the final. This format guarantees at least two encounters between Pakistan and India — one in the group stage and one in the Super Four, with a potential third meeting in the final.
**Future Asia Cups Until 2031**
The current cycle of the Asia Cup includes four editions spanning until 2031. After the 2025 edition, which will feature 19 matches, Bangladesh will host the 2027 edition, which will be played in a One Day International format with 13 matches. Pakistan will host the 2029 edition, also with 19 matches in the T20 format, though the venue will be a neutral location. Finally, Sri Lanka will host the 2031 edition in the ODI format, also featuring 13 matches.
With these future tournaments, cricket fans in Pakistan, India, and across the region can expect thrilling matchups and potentially a reduction in political tension surrounding the sport.
