DUBAI, Sept 9 — The 17th edition of the Asia Cup has officially kicked off in the UAE, promising high-octane cricket and historic firsts. The tournament runs from September 9 to 28, with the final set at the Dubai International Stadium.
🌍 First-Ever 8-Team Line-Up
For the first time in history, eight teams are battling it out:
Group A: India, Pakistan, Oman, UAE
Group B: Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Hong Kong
Nepal is also making its maiden appearance, adding a fresh chapter to the tournament’s legacy.
🔥 India vs Pakistan — The Big Draw
The clash every fan is waiting for — India vs Pakistan — is locked for September 14 in Dubai. If both sides progress, the cricketing giants could collide again in the Super Four and even the final, offering the chance of three blockbuster encounters in one tournament.
🏆 Past & Present Champions
Since starting in Sharjah in 1984, 16 editions have been played.
India leads with 8 titles
Sri Lanka has 6
Pakistan has 2 (2000, 2012)
In the last edition (2023), India beat Sri Lanka to lift the trophy.
🎯 What’s New in 2025
The tournament is being played in the T20 format, serving as a warm-up for the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup.
Pakistan’s Mohammad Nawaz recently grabbed headlines with a hat-trick in Sharjah, boosting Pakistan’s momentum ahead of the Cup.
A star-studded commentary panel featuring Sunil Gavaskar, Ravi Shastri, and Virender Sehwag is adding sparkle off the field.
Experts, including former pacer Morne Morkel, suggest Dubai’s pitches may favor spinners, making bowlers like Kuldeep Yadav potential game-changers.
⚡ The Stakes
India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka enter as favorites, but Bangladesh and Afghanistan remain dangerous dark horses, capable of producing upsets.
With political tensions, historic rivalries, and fresh talent all in play, Asia Cup 2025 is shaping up as one of the most thrilling editions ever.