ACC Shifts 2025 Asia Cup Event from India to UAE

The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has officially announced that its upcoming T20 cricket tournament will be held from September 9 to 28, 2025. ACC President Naqvi made the announcement following the council’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Dhaka, which was attended by all 25 member nations. He expressed optimism about the event, stating, “We look forward to a spectacular display of cricket,” and confirmed that the detailed schedule will be released soon.

The tournament will be played in the T20 format and is intended to serve as preparation for the T20 World Cup 2026, which is set to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka in February. Eight teams are expected to take part in the competition: India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, UAE, Oman, and Hong Kong. The structure includes a group stage, a Super Four round, and a final between the top two teams.

Originally, the 2025 edition was awarded to India, but due to ongoing political tensions between India and Pakistan, the tournament has now been shifted to the UAE. Although India holds the hosting rights, it will not host any matches because the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) refused to send its team to India. Earlier this year, both the BCCI and PCB agreed not to play matches in each other’s countries, prompting the selection of a neutral venue.

The UAE emerged as the most suitable option and will now host the entire tournament. Most matches are expected to be held in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The country has a proven track record in organizing major cricket events, such as previous Asia Cups, the Indian Premier League (IPL), and World Cup qualifiers, supported by its world-class infrastructure.

Other possible host countries were briefly considered but dismissed due to regional diplomatic concerns. These included India’s recent trade tensions with Bangladesh and the fallout from the cancelled Pakistan-India clash during the World Championship of Legends.

ACC President Naqvi emphasized the council’s unity and shared commitment to cricket, stating that all member countries are working together to support the growth and success of the sport across Asia.